In a recent interview, former Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba addressed the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and its implications for citizens living abroad. He emphasized the need for the Ukrainian government to create effective policies to support its diaspora, rather than merely promising their return.
Kuleba acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding the end of the war, stating, “I do not know when the war will end,” and drew parallels with other prolonged conflicts, suggesting that such questions often remain unanswered.
Critical Minority Expected to Return
When asked about the likelihood of Ukrainians currently residing overseas returning home, Kuleba expressed that only a “critical minority” would likely choose to come back. He noted that many individuals who have established their lives in foreign countries may be reluctant to return, even after the conflict concludes.
He warned that without a significant shift in government policy towards Ukrainians abroad, the number of citizens returning could decrease dramatically over the next generation. Kuleba cited a figure of 11 million Ukrainians currently living outside the country, suggesting that this number could be halved due to assimilation into their host societies.
Government Responsibilities
Kuleba outlined two primary responsibilities for the Ukrainian government regarding its citizens abroad. Firstly, he asserted that the state should foster a sense of national identity among Ukrainians, ensuring that they continue to identify as Ukrainians regardless of where they reside. He stated, “A Ukrainian should identify as a Ukrainian from generation to generation, wherever they are.”
Secondly, he urged the government to empower the Ukrainian diaspora to become a political force in their host countries. He suggested that if there are two million Ukrainians in Poland, for instance, political leaders should be incentivized to seek their support in elections. Kuleba emphasized the importance of this political engagement, stating, “No Polish politician should be able to win elections without the backing of the Ukrainian community.”
A Long-term Vision
Looking ahead, Kuleba expressed an ambitious goal: to see a Ukrainian-born individual hold a significant political office in a foreign nation within the next 30 years. This vision reflects a broader strategy to integrate the Ukrainian diaspora into the political landscape of their respective countries.
Ukrainians Abroad
According to recent statistics, as of late 2025, approximately 11 million Ukrainians have left the country, although official figures from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs estimate this number to be around 8.5 million. The discrepancy is attributed to many individuals not registering with consular services, leaving them unaccounted for in official statistics.
Related News
- Occupiers regroup additional forces near Huliaipole: Syrskiy reveals details
- Attempts to breach defense: Broad Russian offensive halted near Pokrovsk
- Russian military bloggers begin openly criticizing command: ISW explains reasons
Dmytro Kuleba, former Ukrainian Foreign Minister, discussed the uncertain future of Ukrainians living abroad and emphasized the need for government policies to support their return and integration. He warned that without significant changes, many may choose to remain abroad, impacting national identity and political engagement.