Sybiha: 8 million Ukrainians abroad; return — a security challenge, payments and travel expenses are being prepared

Ukraine’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Andriy Sibiha during question time for the government reported that due to the war about 8 million Ukrainians are currently abroad, and the state together with international partners is preparing conditions for their return.

He emphasized that the return of citizens is one of the country’s key strategic tasks, and the primary prerequisite for this process should be guaranteeing security in Ukraine.

“For us this is really already becoming a security challenge,” said Andriy Sibiha.

According to him, Ukraine is conducting consultations with foreign governments on programs that will encourage compatriots to come home, in particular providing financial support after their return.

As an example, the minister cited Switzerland, where an initiative is being implemented that covers travel costs and provides temporary housing to citizens after their return to Ukraine.

Earlier we wrote:

• Government’s 15-year strategy: 6% GDP growth, 24–30% investment and the return of 3.1 million Ukrainians
• No status and no protection: what the far-right wants to do to Ukrainians in Germany
• 5.6 million Ukrainians are abroad, less than half intend to return
• Poland cancels a separate law on aid to Ukrainian refugees
• Almost 5 million Ukrainians fled the war to the EU – there they plan to “scale back” refugee protection