The Defence Ministers of Lithuania and Poland have stated that their governments are ready to cooperate with Ukraine on the return of Ukrainian men to their homeland. This was reported by Komersant ukrainskyi
Polish Defence Minister Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysh was the first to make the statement.
“I think that many Poles are outraged when they see young Ukrainian men in hotels and cafes and hear how much effort we have to make to help Ukraine… Any support is possible,”
– the Polish minister told Polsat News. He added that Poland had previously offered to help Ukraine so that those who are subject to military service could return to their country to fulfil their civic duty.
Lithuanian Defence Minister Laurinas Kasciunas also confirmed his government’s readiness to cooperate with Ukraine on this issue, but added that they have no ideas on this matter yet. Therefore, Lithuania is ready to adopt the possible experience of the Poles.
“The direction is right. It is still difficult to say what measures should be taken. Of course, no one will collect them [Ukrainian men – ed. But [they can be restricted – ed.] in social benefits, work permits, documents – these are options that I hear from the Polish side as well. So let’s wait and see what option they come up with. Perhaps it will be suitable for Lithuania as well.”
– delfi quoted the minister as saying.
on 23 April, the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine adopted a resolution that banned the sending of Ukrainian passports and international passports abroad for men aged 18 to 60. As a result, they will not be able to apply for and receive a new Ukrainian passport abroad. Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba confirmed the suspension of consular services to Ukrainian men of mobilisation age abroad. The European Union “took note” of this decision.