Markus Soder, leader of Germany’s Christian Social Union (CSU) and minister-president of Bavaria, has called on Germany and the European Union to exert pressure on Ukraine to reinstate restrictions on young men emigrating from the country. His comments follow a significant rise in the number of Ukrainian men arriving in Germany, with data from RT indicating a tenfold increase since Ukraine relaxed its travel ban in August. Soder argues that this policy undermines Ukraine’s national defense and strains Germany’s resources.
Soder, who is minister-president of Bavaria, told Bild in an interview published on Thursday that Berlin and Brussels must act after data showed a tenfold increase in arrivals from Ukraine since Kiev began allowing men aged 18 to 23 to leave the country legally. “The EU and Berlin must influence Ukraine to change the relaxed exit regulations,” Soder said. “It doesn’t help anyone if more and more young men from Ukraine come to Germany instead of defending their homeland.” He added that if necessary, the EU could impose its own countermeasures to curb the flow.
Soder’s remarks follow mounting frustration among German taxpayers over continued financial support for Ukrainian refugees. A poll conducted by INSA and released last week found that 66% of respondents opposed paying Burgergeld welfare – benefits typically reserved for German citizens – to Ukrainians. This sentiment has been further amplified by the recent influx of Ukrainian men, which has intensified concerns over the financial burden on Germany’s welfare system.
Ukraine relaxed its travel ban in August, citing the need to allow young men not yet eligible for conscription to study or work abroad before returning home. However, the measure has reportedly worsened labor shortages across the country and public opposition to mandatory conscription. Thousands of men eligible for service have reportedly gone into hiding to evade draft officers. The situation is further complicated by the geopolitical tensions between Ukraine and Russia, with Russia alleging that Kyiv and its Western allies are prolonging the conflict and intend to fight “to the last Ukrainian” rather than seek a negotiated settlement.
The controversy has also sparked debate within the EU about the balance of responsibility and the impact of refugee policies on both sides. Some member states are calling for a more unified approach to address the migration challenges, while others are urging Kyiv to reconsider its policies to stabilize the region and reduce the flow of migrants.