Today, the European Commission is proposing to extend for an additional year the temporary protection for people fleeing Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine, while taking into account Ukraine's overall ability to defend itself. By doing so, the Commission reinforces its unwavering commitment to support Ukraine for as long as it takes.
Russia has continued its unprovoked war of aggression which started in February 2022, causing the situation in Ukraine to remain volatile. The objective of this Commission proposal is therefore twofold:
First, to provide for continued legal certainty, stability and predictability by prolonging temporary protection by one additional year until 4 March 2028, since the need for protection of people fleeing Ukraine remains clear.
Second, to reconcile the protection needs with Ukraine's overall ability to defend itself against Russia's illegal war of aggression. To ensure this, temporary protection is not to be granted as a rule to newly arriving persons who are not authorised by the Ukrainian authorities to leave Ukraine in view of their military obligations.
At the same time, it is important that Member States further step up preparations for a coordinated transition out of temporary protection – in line with the 2025 Council Recommendation . This must include both the possibility to transition into longer-term legal resident status as well as opportunities for sustainable return and reintegration in Ukraine when the situation allows. This process has already started in many Member States and should remain a priority.
The Commission will develop, in close cooperation with interested Member States and the Ukrainian authorities, a Voluntary Return and Recovery Programme Pilot. The programme will support those who wish to return with practical support in key areas such as jobs, housing, and education in Ukraine.
The Special Envoy for Ukrainians in the EU, Ylva Johansson, will also continue engaging with Member States and with Ukraine on this matter.
Next steps
It is now for the Council to adopt the Commission proposal.
Background
Almost 4.4 million people displaced from Ukraine currently benefit from temporary protection in the EU, with numbers remaining stable and slightly increasing since 2024.
Member States and their citizens have sent a powerful message of solidarity towards Ukraine and its people fleeing the war, by offering them immediate protection and support, including access to accommodation, healthcare, education and employment.
The Temporary Protection Directive sets out a common EU approach, giving predictability and legal certainty both to the displaced persons from Ukraine and to Member States.
If the circumstances change in Ukraine, allowing for a gradual return and sustainable reintegration in Ukraine, the Commission can make a proposal to the Council to suspend the temporary protection earlier than its foreseen end date.
