EU Links Temporary Protection for Ukrainians to Military Service, Extends Scheme Until 2028

The European Council has approved new rules requiring Ukrainian men to prove military service compliance for new protection applications, and extended the scheme for one more year.

• The European Council approved amendments to the temporary protection mechanism, requiring new applicants after March 2027 to prove they have fulfilled their military obligations in Ukraine.
• The new rules apply only to new applications and do not affect the 4.38 million Ukrainians already under temporary protection as of May 2026.
• Applicants must submit documents such as a passport with a Ukrainian border exit stamp or proof of exemption or completion of military service.
• The Council extended the temporary protection mechanism for Ukrainian refugees by one year, until March 4, 2028.