The European Union plans to extend the temporary protection mechanism for Ukrainian refugees even more decisively than previously expected
It is expected that this important step will be announced during the upcoming European Council meeting on Justice and Home Affairs, scheduled for June 12-13 in Luxembourg. According to sources from "European Pravda" and official diplomatic statements, the EU intends to formalize its decision to prolong the temporary protection for Ukrainians until March 2027. It is worth noting that this initiative takes on particular significance amid the security situation, which Ukraine continues to experience due to Russia’s ongoing aggression. Ukrainian Ambassador to the EU, Vsevolod Chentsov, commented on the possible decision, emphasizing that Ukraine strongly hopes for support from European partners and believes that the European Council will be able to adopt an appropriate resolution. "We count on this mechanism being extended not only formally but also considering current realities. We expect a decision to be made by March 2027," the diplomat stated. In his remarks, Chentsov highlighted that the security situation in Ukraine remains very tense, which is a crucial factor in this context. "We understand that the European Commission’s recommendation to extend protection is driven precisely by these tragic circumstances," he noted. Additionally, the ambassador pointed out that among Ukrainian refugees who received temporary protection in the EU, more than half are women, and about one-third are children. This makes this group particularly vulnerable and requires a tailored approach from the EU, the European Commission, and member states. Meanwhile, in Brussels, discussions continue regarding the future of this mechanism after 2027. Similarly, a diplomat reported that next week, an important visit will take place in the EU capital involving Ukrainian Vice Prime Minister and Minister for National Unity, Oleksii Chernyshov. He will meet with the European Commissioner for Migration, Magnus Brunner, and other European officials to discuss common approaches towards facilitating the return of Ukrainian citizens who wish and are able to come back home, provided safety conditions are met. According to the Ukrainian representative, one of the key issues on the agenda will be identifying ways to assist Ukrainians in returning once the security situation in the country becomes more stable. "We will work diligently to ensure that the EU and its member states share a vision regarding the phasing out of the temporary protection directive after March 2027," the diplomat added. As of March 31, 2025, over 4.26 million Ukrainian citizens who fled Ukraine due to Russia’s large-scale aggression have been granted temporary protection statuses across EU countries. This reflects the scale of the ongoing humanitarian crisis and underscores the importance of sustained and consistent measures in this area. Previously, the EU considered implementing other statuses or pathways for the legalization of Ukrainian refugees to ensure their continued support and integration. Against this backdrop, Ukrainian representatives and European officials are actively seeking joint solutions to address the mass displacement of Ukrainians. It is expected that the most challenging issues regarding legal status and the possibilities for Ukrainians to return home will be thoroughly discussed in Brussels at the beginning of June. Resolving these issues will be crucial not only for the future of millions of Ukrainians but also for the future cooperation between Ukraine and the EU, as maintaining European support remains a key element in the regional fight for stability and security.