Oleksiy Chernyshov: Ukraine will do everything to make the return of its citizens from abroad a conscious and desired choice

Ukraine will do everything to ensure that the return of its citizens from abroad is a conscious and desired choice. This was stated by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Unity of Ukraine Oleksiy Chernyshov in an interview with Euronews.

“We cannot force anyone to return. That’s impossible. The only motivation to return to Ukraine is a successful Ukraine and love for one’s homeland. Only these two factors can encourage Ukrainians to seriously consider such a decision. There has been and will be no coercion,” emphasised Oleksiy Chernyshov.

The Minister also commented on the European Commission’s proposal to extend temporary protection for Ukrainians until March 2027: “This gives Ukrainians living in the European Union over 20 months of clarity to plan their lives and their eventual return to Ukraine as soon as conditions allow. For some, the priority is peace – stable and lasting. For others, it’s about economic development, the labour market, better employment opportunities, new jobs, and an economic breakthrough. For others still, it’s European integration. But if we move forward on this path, most Ukrainians will seriously consider returning to Ukraine.”

Oleksiy Chernyshov noted that Ukrainians abroad were actively contributing to the economic life of European Union countries: “I believe the contribution of Ukrainians to EU countries is significant. Ukrainians in Europe are a valuable asset to the labour market. They are professional, hardworking, intelligent, and educated. It’s clear that labour markets will compete for them.”

Among the key areas of focus, the Minister highlighted the Ukrainian Government’s collaboration with European partners to establish a network of Unity Centres – support spaces for Ukrainians abroad.

“We have significant support from the European Commission regarding the establishment of a Special Representative for Ukrainians in the EU. Together, we will develop the Unity Centres programme in European countries. I am convinced this will expand opportunities for Ukrainians to seriously consider returning home once stable peace is achieved,” said Oleksiy Chernyshov.