The European Commission is preparing a plan for the return of Ukrainian refugees. Currently, about 4.3 million Ukrainians reside in the EU, mainly in Poland, Germany, and the Czech Republic.
The EU provided them with the right to live and work in Europe under a temporary "protection program." This program has been repeatedly extended, and discussions are underway in Brussels about how to conclude it.
The European Commission intends to "act cautiously" and "minimize the risks of uncontrolled mass movement of people." Brussels plans to create information centers to advise refugees on returning to Ukraine. The first such centers are to be opened in Germany and Spain.
The European Union will develop a plan for the return of Ukrainians home after the end of hostilities. It is expected that the temporary protection status for Ukrainians will also be extended for another 12 months, until March 2027. A special approach will be offered to vulnerable groups, in particular pregnant women, the sick, and parents of school-age children.