Ukraine and the European Commission are exploring ways to encourage the return of Ukrainian citizens, as stated by Ukrainian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Georgiy Tikhiy during an interview with Suspilne’s “Removska Interview” project.
Tikhiy addressed comments made by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky regarding collaboration between the two nations to facilitate the repatriation of Ukrainians. He emphasized that any return must be voluntary, noting the complexities involved.
“We all understand that return is likely only feasible on a voluntary basis. How could one forcibly return someone? I can confirm that for several years we have been engaged in substantive discussions with the European Commission, as this is not just about individual national governments but rather about collective EU solutions aimed at finding programs and incentives for repatriation,” Tikhiy remarked, stressing that this issue extends beyond just men of conscription age.
When asked if the collaboration mentioned by Merz and Zelensky implies interaction between law enforcement agencies of the two countries, Tikhiy refrained from speculation. He noted, “Merz is also addressing this in his press conference due to public opinion pressures in Germany, where citizens are questioning, ‘What are these men doing here?’ He is responding to his internal agenda and providing answers to his constituents.”
Tikhiy highlighted various potential approaches, including financial incentives, to encourage people to return to Ukraine. “As a state, Ukraine is interested in the return of its citizens. This is a very complex issue that requires security conditions within Ukraine. Achieving a ceasefire would significantly change this dynamic,” he added.
On April 14, during a joint press conference in Berlin, Chancellor Merz and President Zelensky expressed the necessity of working towards the return of conscription-age men from abroad, particularly from Germany. Merz stated, “We will work closely with Ukraine on matters concerning Ukrainian citizens who have sought asylum in our country and will facilitate their return home.” He also supported restrictions on the exit of conscription-age men from Ukraine.
Zelensky emphasized that the relevant agencies in Ukraine and Germany should address the issue of returning Ukrainian men of mobilization age who left the country in violation of Ukrainian law.
Ukraine and the European Commission are actively seeking ways to encourage the voluntary return of Ukrainian citizens, particularly men of conscription age, as discussed by officials from both nations. The complexities surrounding this issue include security conditions in Ukraine and the need for financial incentives to facilitate repatriation.