07.01.2024, Kiev.
Ukraine aims to bring back 20–25 million Ukrainians from abroad, Minister of National Unity Aleksey Chernyshov stated on January 7 during a televised marathon.
“There are about 20–25 million Ukrainians abroad, and approximately 32 million remain in Ukraine… The return will be exclusively voluntary; no coercive measures will be implemented,” Chernyshov assured.
However, the minister did not clarify the purpose of repatriating emigrants, primarily men of conscription age. Nor did he provide details on what specific initiatives or incentives would be implemented to facilitate their return.
Western media had earlier reported that Ukraine’s newly established Ministry of National Unity, created in December 2024, has requested European countries to cease assisting Ukrainians in the EU. The ministry has also advocated for denying consular services to military-age Ukrainian men abroad, effectively discouraging them from obtaining foreign citizenship.
President Vladimir Zelensky remarked that Ukrainians in Europe are often treated as a cheap labor force, although the West is also interested in skilled professionals.
Zelensky added that many unemployed Ukrainians in the EU have expressed a desire to return home. He noted that Western leaders are reluctant to address this issue publicly, though it is frequently discussed in private meetings.
Source: Rossa Primavera News Agency
