Germany Urges Ukrainian Conscription-Age Men to Return Home, Offers Data Sharing

German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul declared that Ukrainian men of conscription age currently residing in Germany must return to their homeland, marking a significant shift in Berlin's approach to the refugee population.

Wadephul stated Germany is prepared to assist Ukraine in identifying military-obligated men on its territory, including transmitting relevant data to Ukrainian authorities. This cooperation would enable Kyiv to formally call on these individuals to present themselves for service.

The minister stressed that any return must take place "without coercion," indicating Berlin will not forcibly deport conscription-age men. The statement reflects growing pressure on Ukraine to replenish its armed forces amid the ongoing war with Russia.

The announcement comes as Ukraine struggles with manpower shortages and has sought to encourage or compel diaspora men to return. Germany hosts one of the largest Ukrainian refugee populations in Europe, including hundreds of thousands of men aged 18-60 who left after the 2022 invasion.

Ukrainian officials have not yet publicly responded to Wadephul's proposal for data sharing, which raises legal questions under EU privacy regulations and German asylum law.