On 13 July, Poland’s Defence Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz publicly stated that young Ukrainians fit for military service should remain in Ukraine to help defend their country. His comments came against the backdrop of political debates in Poland regarding Ukrainian refugees and mobilisation, as well as ongoing discussions within the EU about the future status of temporary protection for Ukrainians.
Briefly about the main points
- The Polish Defence Minister has called on young Ukrainians to serve in their own country.
- The statement was made against a backdrop of political tension over refugees.
- The EU is considering extending temporary protection for Ukrainians until 2028.
- Poland has taken in over 3 million Ukrainian refugees.
Statement by the Polish Minister of Defence
13 July, the Polish Minister of Defence Vladislav Kosinyak-Kamysh He publicly stated that young Ukrainians who are fit for military service should remain in Ukraine and take part in its defence. He emphasised that he considers it abnormal for young Ukrainians to be abroad whilst the country is at war.
The minister’s comments came in response to the political debate in Poland regarding the presence of Ukrainian refugees and the issue of mobilisation. Kosiniak-Kamysz also criticised far-right politicians and the opposition party «Law and Justice» for fuelling anti-Ukrainian sentiment within Polish society.
The political context in Poland
The minister’s remarks came against the backdrop of growing tensions within Polish society regarding Ukrainian refugees. Since the start of the full-scale war, Poland has taken in over 3 million Ukrainians, which has posed a significant challenge to the country’s social services.
The issue of the presence of Ukrainian men of conscription age is the subject of lively debate in Polish political circles. Some political groups are using this to strengthen their own position, which is putting additional pressure on the government.
Discussions within the EU regarding the status of Ukrainian refugees
The European Commission has proposed extending the validity of the Temporary Directive protection for Ukrainians in the EU until 4 March 2028. However, the document provides for an exemption for those who evade military service.
The issue of the future status of Ukrainian refugees is expected to be considered at EU level in July or September 2026. This could affect the conditions under which Ukrainian men of conscription age are allowed to stay in EU countries.
Reactions and possible consequences
The Polish minister’s statement caused a stir in the Polish and Ukrainian media. At the time of writing, there has been no official reaction from the Ukrainian authorities.
An editorial analysis suggests that such statements may reflect growing public pressure in Poland regarding Ukrainian refugees and the government’s desire to take a hard line on mobilisation. This may also influence future discussions within the EU regarding the return of Ukrainian men of conscription age.
What might change for Ukrainians in the EU
There is as yet no official information regarding possible changes to Poland’s policy on the deportation or forced return of Ukrainians of conscription age. However, the minister’s statement could signal an intensification of discussions within the EU on this issue.
Future decisions by the European Union regarding temporary protection status for Ukrainians may depend on developments on the front line and the political climate in member states.
