Polish Defense Minister Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysh expressed the country's readiness to help Ukraine return men of military age to their homeland to participate in hostilities against Russia. This statement was made in the context of the suspension of the issuance of consular services to Ukrainians and the ban on the issuance of foreign passports outside Ukraine, which applies to men aged 18 to 60 years.

Kosiniak-Kamysh emphasized that he sees discontent among Poles about the presence of Ukrainian young men in civilian institutions, while Poland is actively helping Ukraine. He argues that many in Poland are angry about this imbalance, especially given the significant efforts the country is making to support Ukraine.

“I think that many Poles are outraged when they see young Ukrainian guys in hotels and cafes, and hear how much effort we have to make to help Ukraine”, said Kosinyak-Kamysh.

The minister added that Poland is ready to offer any assistance if Kyiv requests help in returning Ukrainians, especially if they risk losing the right to stay in Poland after their passports expire.

According to the latest Eurostat data, approximately 4,3 million Ukrainians live in EU countries, of which about 860 thousand are adult men. According to some estimates, approximately 500-600 thousand people may be subject to mobilization.