EU Plans Extended Protection, Return Strategy for 4 Million Ukrainian Refugees

The European Union is preparing to extend temporary protection for the approximately 4.3 million Ukrainian refugees residing in EU member states until March 2027, recognizing the ongoing security challenges in Ukraine. Alongside this extension, the EU is developing a cautious and controlled plan for the eventual return of Ukrainians to their homeland after the conflict ends, aiming to avoid chaotic mass movements that could strain both Ukraine and EU countries. This plan includes the establishment of "unity hubs" across EU countries to provide counseling, language training, and employment support to Ukrainians, facilitating their adaptation whether they remain in the EU or return to Ukraine. EU officials, including Migration Commissioner Magnus Brunner and Ukraine's Deputy Prime Minister Oleksiy Chernyshov, emphasize the need to balance the interests of those choosing to stay with those planning to return. The temporary protection directive, active since 2022 following Russia's full-scale invasion, has granted Ukrainians access to housing, jobs, education, and healthcare across the EU. The EU continues to prepare for all scenarios given the unpredictable situation, underscoring that Ukraine's recovery relies heavily on the eventual return of its population.