The new ban on military-age Ukrainian men applying for consular services abroad is a temporary suspension that does not apply to those who have updated their military records, according to the Foreign Ministry. The ban, announced on April 23, is in response to the new law on mobilization and prohibits men aged 18 to 60 from leaving Ukraine during the war while martial law is in effect. Ukrainian embassies and consulates are no longer accepting new applications for consular services for men in this age group, with some exceptions for registration of identity cards for return to Ukraine. The ban also includes a restriction on sending identification documents and passports of military-age men abroad. However, men who have updated their information in accordance with the law will have the opportunity to apply for consular services once new arrangements are in place.
The State Border Guard Service reported that over 30 draft evaders have died while trying to illegally cross Ukraine’s mountainous western border to evade mobilization. The Foreign Ministry clarified on April 30 that the ban on receiving consular services for military-age men is temporary and is focused on updating and verifying military records for those who are outside of Ukraine. This decision does not violate human rights, as it only applies to the acceptance of new applications and not to emergency situations such as road accidents or natural disasters affecting Ukrainian citizens abroad. Deputy Prime Minister Olha Stefanishyna emphasized that there will be no restrictions or forced return of Ukrainian citizens of any gender or age back to Ukraine. The process of military registration for men living abroad is more about collecting data on potential manpower availability than an immediate mobilization plan.
Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda and Prime Minister Ingrida Simonyte expressed support for the idea of Lithuania assisting Ukraine in bringing back its military-aged men living abroad. Following consultations with the EU and Kyiv, it was reported that Vilnius may provide assistance in this regard. The support from Lithuania comes amidst efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of Ukrainian men affected by the ban on consular services for military-age individuals. It highlights the importance of international cooperation and solidarity in addressing the challenges faced by Ukraine during the ongoing conflict and mobilization efforts. Collaboration between countries in the region is crucial in supporting Ukraine and its citizens during these challenging times.
The Foreign Ministry reiterated that the suspension of consular services for military-age men does not apply to emergencies abroad, ensuring that Ukrainian citizens in need of urgent assistance will still receive support. The clarification provided by the ministry aims to address concerns about potential human rights violations and ensure that the temporary ban on new applications for consular services is implemented in a fair and reasonable manner. By focusing on updating and verifying military records for men of conscription age who are outside of Ukraine, the ministry seeks to facilitate the eventual resumption of consular support for this group once the necessary arrangements are in place. The government is working to balance the requirements of national security and military mobilization with the rights and needs of Ukrainian citizens living abroad.
Overall, the measures taken by the Ukrainian government regarding the ban on consular services for military-age men reflect the challenges faced by the country during the ongoing conflict and mobilization efforts. The temporary suspension of new applications is intended to ensure compliance with the law on mobilization and safeguard national security interests during the war. While this may inconvenience some Ukrainian citizens abroad, efforts are being made to address concerns and provide opportunities for those who have updated their military records to access consular services in the future. International support from countries like Lithuania further underscores the need for solidarity and cooperation in addressing the humanitarian and security challenges faced by Ukraine. As the situation continues to evolve, the government remains committed to protecting the rights and well-being of its citizens both at home and abroad.
