The number of Ukrainian refugees in the EU has risen again
As of the end of May 2026, 4.38 million Ukrainian citizens had temporary protection status in European Union countries. Over the course of the month, their number increased by 7,795 people, or 0.2%.
More than half of all statuses granted were in three countries:
Germany—1,283,270 people (29.3%);
Poland — 967,505 people (22.1%);
Spain — 267,400 people (6.1%).
The largest increases in the number of refugees in May were recorded in Italy (+6,250 people), Germany (+3,610), and Spain (+2,295). At the same time, four countries saw an outflow, with the most significant decreases in Bulgaria (-12,345 people) and Poland (-3,750 people). In terms of the relative burden on the local population, the leaders are Slovakia (26.8 refugees per 1,000 residents), Poland (26.5), and Cyprus (25.9).
The majority of temporary protection holders were adult women (43.4%) and minors (29.8%), while adult men accounted for 26.8%. The Council of the EU has extended temporary protection status for Ukrainians until March 4, 2027.
This is according to Eurostat data.
New social support rules took effect in Germany on July 1, 2026. From now on, Ukrainian refugees and unemployed citizens of the country will receive a basic income (Grundsicherung) instead of the Bürgergeld social assistance.
Earlier, Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights Michael O’Flaherty stated that certain European Union countries are using pressure tactics against Ukrainian refugees to encourage them to return to Ukraine.
