The EU announced that Ukrainian refugees are welcome into member countries for 3 years without applying for asylum. “We welcome with open arms those who have to flee from Putin’s bombs,” President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen said.
The EU collectively agreed to let in Ukrainian refugees for up to three years, without the requirement to first apply for asylum.
The exception comes after Russia launched a large-scale invasion against Ukraine on Thursday, leading thousands of people to flee their homes. On Sunday, the UN’s refugee agency reported that nearly 370,000 people have traveled from Ukraine into neighboring countries — including Poland and Moldova — and beyond.
German interior minister Nancy Faeser announced the measure following a meeting of European leaders over the weekend on how to respond to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
During a news briefing Sunday, President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen championed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky for his “bravery.”
President @ZelenskyyUa‘s leadership, his bravery and the resilience of the Ukrainian people are an inspiration to us all.
We welcome with open arms those who have to flee from Putin’s bombs.⁰
We support our Eastern Member States in hosting and taking care of these refugees. pic.twitter.com/oCGnTcg7tE— Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) February 27, 2022
“We welcome with open arms those who have to flee from Putin’s bombs,” Leyen said.
Leyen added: “We support our Eastern Member States in hosting and taking care of these refugees.”
On Sunday, European Commissioner for Home Affairs said that the EU should anticipate large numbers, adding that “we should be prepared for millions”.
Ukraine will become the 28th member of the EU
