German opposition calls for Ukrainian men to go back home to fight
Date
6/24/2024 5:42:37 AM
(MENAFN) Senior members of the German opposition, including Christian Democratic Union (CDU) deputy head Thorsten Frei and Brandenburg Interior Minister Michael Stuebgen, have voiced concerns over social benefits provided to Ukrainian refugees in Germany. They argue that these benefits, which exceed those offered to asylum seekers from other nations, may inadvertently discourage Ukrainian men from returning to defend their homeland amid the ongoing conflict with Russia.
Frei criticized the current welfare system, particularly the 'Buergergeld' program, which provides EUR563 per month to Ukrainian refugees, highlighting that such financial support could deter able-bodied Ukrainians from participating in the defense efforts in their country. He expressed concern that some Ukrainians may choose to seek refuge in Germany to avoid military conscription in Ukraine during this critical period.
Stuebgen echoed Frei's sentiments, emphasizing the inconsistency of supporting Ukraine while simultaneously offering generous benefits to Ukrainian refugees. He argued that reevaluating the benefits structure to align it with those provided to asylum seekers from other nations would be a more prudent approach, given the circumstances.
Similarly, Bijan Djir-Sarai, general secretary of the Free Democratic Party (FDP), joined the discussion by advocating for a revision of benefits for newly arriving Ukrainian refugees. He suggested that limiting benefits to asylum seeker allowances would better reflect the current humanitarian and geopolitical context.
These statements reflect growing debate within German political circles about the balance between humanitarian aid for refugees and supporting Ukraine in its defense against Russian aggression. The proposals put forward by opposition figures highlight concerns over potential unintended consequences of welfare policies on the ongoing conflict dynamics and the commitment of Ukrainian citizens to their homeland's defense.
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