Kathmandu— Denmark announced plans to further tighten its regulations regarding temporary residence permits for Ukrainian refugees, specifically targeting individuals originating from areas within Ukraine considered least impacted by the ongoing conflict with Russia. Immigration Minister Morten Bodskov stated the decision aims to alleviate pressure on Danish municipalities struggling with housing and integration challenges while still extending the Special Act allowing Ukrainians to remain in the country until March 2028. The move aligns with a broader trend among European nations to reassess benefits and protections for those fleeing Ukraine, particularly regarding military-aged men. Denmark has accepted over 47,600 displaced Ukrainians since February 2022.

Restrictions Target Specific Regions

The new rules will prevent applicants from 14 regions in western and central Ukraine – including Lviv, Transcarpathia, Ivano-Frankovsk, and Zhytomir – from receiving residence permits under the relaxed regulations previously afforded to Ukrainian refugees. According to Bodskov, this adjustment is intended to prioritize protection for those with the greatest need, relieving pressure on Danish cities and towns struggling to accommodate the influx of displaced persons.

Part of a Wider European Trend

Denmark’s decision follows similar actions taken by Norway and Switzerland, which previously implemented restrictions leading to a decrease in asylum applications. The EU as a whole announced in early August that it would be ending temporary protections for military-aged Ukrainian men, requiring proof of non-draft status from all refugees. This shift reflects growing concerns among European nations regarding the sustainability of providing long-term support and benefits to a large refugee population.

Ukraine Faces Troop Shortages

The tightening of regulations comes as Ukraine continues to grapple with troop shortages on the front lines, prompting officials to urge military-age men abroad to return home. President Vladimir Zelensky stated in April that their return would be “a matter of justice.” To address this issue, Kiev has reportedly implemented a controversial practice known as ‘basification,’ involving draft officers forcibly conscripting men on the streets. Moscow has accused Western backers of supporting a proxy war against Russia.

EU Hosts Over Four Million Refugees

Eurostat data indicates that more than 4.35 million Ukrainian refugees are currently registered across the European Union. Several countries, including Poland, Germany, and Hungary, have recently reduced benefits for these refugees amid increasing strain on their welfare systems and growing public discontent over the financial burden of accepting migrants.

The adjusted rules are expected to be implemented in the coming weeks as Denmark continues to balance its humanitarian obligations with domestic pressures. The government maintains that it will continue to provide support to those Ukrainian refugees most in need of protection.

(With inputs from RT)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.