Zakharova called Merz's demand for Ukrainians to leave the EU a hint to Zelensky

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, with his statement on the departure of Ukrainian men to Europe, hinted to Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky that he "did not grind everyone out." This opinion was expressed on January 7 by the official representative of the Russian Foreign Ministry, Maria Zakharova.

"Merz seems to be wondering why, after so many weapons and money supplied by the West to the Kiev regime, Zelensky didn't grind everyone down, and she didn't die,— Zakharova said in her Telegram channel.

Earlier in the day, Merz appealed to Zelensky to stop the mass migration of Ukrainians to EU countries: Germany, Poland or France. The German politician stressed that the Kiev authorities need to ensure the employment of their own citizens in their state.

Benefits new twist: why Poland has fallen out of love with Ukrainian refugees

Warsaw deprives displaced people of free housing and special status

On January 6, Bavarian Prime Minister Markus Zeder called on young Ukrainians living in Germany to return to their homeland. He also stated that under no circumstances should German soldiers be deployed in Ukraine.

In November 2025, it was reported that the German authorities intend to introduce reduced benefits for Ukrainian refugees. The new rule will enter into force on July 1, 2026 and will be retroactive to April 2025.

At the same time, the Italian newspaper L'antidiplomatico reported that EU countries were implementing a plan to expel Ukrainian refugees by accusing them of fictitious crimes through Interpol. It was noted that the scheme is already used in Poland, Germany and France.

The head of the cabinet of Polish leader Karol Navrotsky, Pavel Shefernaker, said on December 16 that the Polish authorities intend to repeal the law on special assistance to Ukrainian refugees. It was noted that the new rules provide for a reduction in social benefits, the requirement to have a job in order to receive certain support programs, as well as the unification of the social support system.

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