EU and Poland weigh new rules for Ukrainian temporary protection

The European Union is reviewing Ukraine's request to exempt Ukrainian men of conscription age from the temporary protection scheme, which could allow them to be sent to the front lines. Officials from Germany, Sweden and Poland have voiced support, and the European Commission expects a decision on amendments to the directive by the summer of 2026. Currently, 4.32 million Ukrainians, including 1.15 million men of military‑age, benefit from temporary protection across the bloc.

In Poland, a law that took effect in March 2026 improves the status of legally employed Ukrainians, granting them longer residence permits and greater stability. However, the same legislation leaves sick, elderly and war‑veteran refugees facing severe hardships, with many ending up in homeless shelters lacking adequate food, medical care or social support. NGOs report a growing need for assistance and call for further amendments to protect the most vulnerable Ukrainians in Poland.