Germany plans to return men to Ukraine and reduce payments to refugees

In Germany, the issue of Ukraine, its army, and support for refugees is being raised again. Bavarian Premier Markus Söder, leader of the CSU party, has expressed strong opinions on this issue.

Söder categorically denies the possibility of sending German troops to Ukraine, even within the framework of security guarantees. “I find it difficult to imagine the presence of NATO troops there. Russia will not accept this, since this could be the first step towards Ukraine joining NATO,” he noted in a comment.

According to the politician, the German army is not ready for such a task, neither financially nor in terms of personnel. He proposes to restore compulsory military service for German citizens. Söder also considers it appropriate for Ukrainians of draft age who are in Germany to return to their homeland and join the defense of their country.

In his statements, Söder also criticizes social support, noting that the basic “Bürgergeld” benefit makes Germany less attractive for employment among Ukrainians. “This means that, compared to other European countries, fewer Ukrainians are employed. This needs to change urgently,” he says.

According to the coalition agreement between the CDU/CSU and the Social Democrats, Ukrainians who arrive in Germany after April 1, 2025, will not be eligible for “Bürgergeld”. Instead, they will be provided with other, less significant payments provided to asylum seekers. Those who arrived earlier will remain on the previous terms.

It was also previously reported that Germany may reduce social benefits for Ukrainian refugees due to their insufficient activity in the labor market.