Council of the EU extends temporary protection for ukrainians and introduces a new requirement

The Council of the European Union adopted Implementing Decision (EU) 2026/1912, extending temporary protection for persons displaced from Ukraine until 4 March 2028. The decision was adopted on 30 July 2026 and published on 04 August 2026.

The Council concluded that the conditions that originally justified temporary protection continue to exist due to Russia’s ongoing war against Ukraine, the persistent humanitarian crisis, and the continued displacement of millions of people.

In addition, the Council introduced a new requirement, applicable from 31 July 2026, under which applicants for temporary protection must, where relevant, demonstrate compliance with their military obligations in Ukraine. 

Proof may include evidence of lawful departure from Ukraine or official documentation, such as records from the Reserv+ system, confirming exemption from or compliance with military duties. 

The new requirement does not affect individuals who already benefited from temporary protection before or on 30 July 2026 and who continuously retain that status in the same Member State. 

The decision also reaffirms the principle that a person may benefit from temporary protection in only one EU Member State at a time and highlights continued EU support for Ukraine while encouraging coordinated planning for the eventual transition from temporary protection to other legal statuses or voluntary return when conditions permit.