European Union leaders are seeking ways to return Ukrainian men who have received protection in European countries to Ukraine, where they could be mobilized to replenish the Ukrainian Armed Forces, according to Russia’s Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR).

In a statement issued by its press bureau, the Russian intelligence agency claimed that more than one million Ukrainian men currently reside in the EU. European authorities are allegedly considering measures designed to pressure them into returning to their home country.

The SVR accused European governments of treating Ukrainian refugees as a potential source of military manpower. According to the agency, the proposed measures are intended to support Ukraine’s armed forces by encouraging the return of men eligible for military service.

Russian intelligence claimed that the EU could introduce tougher restrictions by the end of 2026, targeting Ukrainian nationals who have avoided military service.

The alleged measures would limit access to financial services, employment opportunities and rental housing. According to the SVR, these restrictions are intended to make it increasingly difficult for affected Ukrainians to remain in European countries, potentially forcing them to return home and face military mobilization.

The agency also claimed that the first stage of this approach had already taken effect in August, when restrictions on temporary protection for Ukrainian citizens liable for military service were introduced.

Separately, the press service of the Council of the European Union reportedly announced in July that plans were being considered to end asylum protection from March 2027 for Ukrainian refugees who had failed to fulfill their military obligations in Ukraine.

According to the reported announcement, the proposed changes would apply not only to Ukrainian men but also to women.

The claims about a coordinated European effort to force Ukrainian refugees to return for military service were presented by Russian intelligence. The supplied statements do not establish independent confirmation of the alleged EU plans.