EU special envoy reveals how many Ukrainian refugees live in EU

Ylva Johansson, a Special Envoy for Ukrainians in the EU, has said at a press conference in Brussels that about 4.7 million Ukrainian refugees are currently living in the European Union.

"There are 4.7 million Ukrainians who are currently benefiting from temporary protection in EU member states. And this number is growing right now," Johansson said.

She added that, in practice, new arrivals reach EU member states every week to apply for temporary protection. She added that the number of people seeking refuge continues to grow, but emphasised that temporary protection must remain temporary.

"We will now focus on this new phase we are entering – the transition from temporary protection to a new stage. And what is this new stage? I would say we are moving from protection to partnership. We are moving from… refugee status to the formation of a diaspora," Johansson concluded.

On 15 July, the Council of the European Union approved an official decision to extend the directive on temporary protection for Ukrainians in the European Union until 4 March 2027.

After 4 March 2027, when temporary protection for Ukrainians in the EU expires, support will be provided for an unhindered return to Ukraine, while those employed or studying in the EU will be eligible to change their residence status.