German Chancellor Friedrich Merz emphasized support for Ukraine’s efforts to limit the departure of men of draft age to European Union countries. According to the politician, this is critically important for ensuring Ukraine’s defense capability, maintaining social unity, and further rebuilding the state.
This is reported by Kyiv24
Germany’s Position on the Departure of Ukrainian Men
During a joint briefing with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Friedrich Merz stated that Berlin sees positive results in the cooperation between Ukraine and the EU on this issue. He stressed that limiting the departure of citizens of draft age aligns with the interests of both sides.
“We also want to say that we support Ukraine’s efforts to limit the departure of men of draft age to the EU. This is absolutely necessary for Ukraine to defend itself, to maintain the unity of Ukrainian society, and to enable the real reconstruction of Ukraine. We see tangible progress here in the interest of both sides”
Ukraine’s Approach to the Return of Citizens
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized that the issue of returning men of draft age who left the country in violation of Ukrainian legislation should be jointly addressed by the relevant authorities of Ukraine and Germany. He stated that the Armed Forces of Ukraine are interested in the return of these individuals, as this matter pertains to the fair distribution of responsibilities and rotation.
Zelensky also highlighted that many men of draft age have been outside the country for a long time, and the return of such individuals is important for maintaining effective mobilization and protecting the state.