The EU is gradually moving away from the temporary protection approach for Ukrainians and is preparing member states for that shift. In Brussels, officials plan to stop extending temporary protection for people displaced by the Russo–Ukrainian war.
Roman Honcharenko, an editor at German broadcaster Deutsche Welle, said Berlin is encouraging Ukrainians who plan to remain in Germany to change their status from temporary to long-term residency as soon as possible. He said a long-term residence status removes many benefits now available under temporary protection, including free health insurance, housing-cost compensation, and some social payments.
"In the [German] budget there are sometimes not enough funds to maintain cities and municipalities," Honcharenko told NV. "So, refugees must work."
Honcharenko added that reducing social assistance for Ukrainians gradually is a rational step.
In September 2025, the European Council adopted recommendations for member states on phasing out temporary protection. Sources said those recommendations signal a gradual move away from the temporary protection model and were adopted to organize an effective policy for returning Ukrainians to their homeland "when conditions allow."
Experts told NV that governments and Ukrainians have been given time to "get their affairs in order" and prepare, at least formally, for the legal changes. For that reason, they said, an extension of temporary protection is unlikely.
Analysts also note that EU leaders are aware of the
realities in Ukraine: the Russian invasion continues, and people are still
being wounded and killed by shelling. Kyiv will continue to receive support,
they say. But after March 4, 2027, Ukrainians who want to live in EU countries
will generally have to apply for residence on the same legal grounds as other
non-EU nationals.