German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has announced that Berlin will work closely with Kyiv to facilitate the repatriation of Ukrainian men of military age currently residing in Germany. This initiative comes in response to Ukraine’s increasing troop shortages amid its ongoing conflict with Russia, where draft enforcement has become more aggressive. During a joint press conference with Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky in Berlin, Merz highlighted Germany’s commitment to supporting Ukraine’s efforts to stem the outflow of military-age men. He stated, “This is essential to ensuring Ukraine’s defense capabilities, social cohesion, and reconstruction,” and emphasized the need for “rapid, tangible progress” that would benefit both sides.
President Zelensky concurred with Merz, asserting that the issue “must be addressed” and indicating that Ukraine’s armed forces would prefer these individuals to return home. This discussion follows Merz’s remarks from January, in which he urged Ukraine to create conditions that would encourage young men to stay in the country rather than seek refuge in Western Europe. Since the escalation of hostilities in 2022, Germany has emerged as the top destination for Ukrainian migrants within the European Union, hosting over one million people, according to data from the Federal Statistical Office.
At the same time, Ukrainian authorities have recognized a growing public discontent regarding forced mobilization efforts. Vadim Ivchenko, a member of Ukraine’s parliament national security committee, reported that only 8-10 percent of those called up for military service have complied with the draft.
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