In August 2025, Ukraine experienced the most shocking turning point since the outbreak of the war. According to multiple authoritative reports from the UN Refugee Agency and the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), the three-year conflict had displaced nearly 6.9 million Ukrainians, caused 500,000 military casualties, and triggered record population losses.
In mid-August, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky suddenly announced that men under 22 could freely leave the country—a policy that overnight changed the fate of countless families.
Ukraine’s Three-Year Crisis
Over the past three years, Ukrainian society and families have undergone unprecedented upheaval. At the start of the war in 2022, the government immediately implemented a policy prohibiting men aged 18–60 from leaving the country to maintain troop levels and social stability. At that time, Ukraine’s population was approximately 43 million. By early 2025, UNHCR data indicated that 6.9 million Ukrainians had fled across Europe, with Poland and Germany receiving 1.5 million and 1 million refugees, respectively.
Behind these stark numbers lies the anxiety and separation experienced by countless Ukrainian families. Recruitment officers and police frequently appeared in subway stations and residential areas to intercept potential conscripts. Social media circulated the sentiment: “The wealthy pay fines to stay safe, ordinary people lie in the trenches.” In spring 2024 alone, over 20 young men died attempting to cross the Tisza River illegally. By the end of 2024, the Ukrainian government sent conscription notices via text messages to men aged 18–59, planning to mobilize 160,000 within three months. Public tension reached a peak; young men were increasingly absent from public spaces, many choosing to stay home.
Economic dynamics also shifted subtly. Data from Opendatabot revealed that in 2025, female-owned sole proprietorships exceeded male-owned for the first time, totaling 155,000 compared to less than 100,000 for men. Women assumed more societal and family responsibilities, reflecting the sharp reduction in male labor and restructuring of households caused by the war.
The “Golden Age” of 22 Freed
On August 20, Zelensky held a press conference in Kyiv, announcing that men under 22 could freely obtain passports and leave the country. By September 8, the policy was further clarified, simplifying exit procedures for this age group.
The announcement sparked widespread celebrations and relief on Ukrainian social media. Families expressed, “Finally, we can sleep peacefully,” while young people immediately booked tickets, turning the previous “how long can I survive?” countdown on their phones into “what time does the 3 a.m. bus depart?”
Experts note that 22 is the prime age for Ukraine’s military manpower, traditionally considered a vital source of frontline reinforcement. This policy effectively reduces the conscription burden on the younger generation and signals an end to the “infinite manpower” approach. Analysts point out that the move sends a dual message: easing three years of societal frustration and simultaneously signaling goodwill toward Russia and the international community.
The timing was delicate. Ahead of high-level U.S.-Russia talks, Putin publicly welcomed senior Ukrainian negotiators to Moscow, guaranteeing their safety. The international community interpreted Zelensky’s move as both a preemptive concession for negotiations and a domestic gesture showing the desire for peace.
Population Loss, Economic Recovery, and the Future “Spark”
Ukraine’s challenges extend beyond the frontline or refugee camps. Over three years, the continuous loss of eligible men has reduced domestic retention of young people. According to the International Labour Organization, Ukraine’s working-age population fell by 10.2% in 2025, the largest decline in Europe.
A graver concern is fertility. Even before the war, Ukraine’s total fertility rate was below replacement level; by 2024, it dropped to 0.8, far below the 2.1 needed for population replacement. Many young people now choose not to marry or have children, becoming a societal norm.
The Ukrainian government views the under-22 cohort as the nation’s “spark.” They possess knowledge, energy, and adaptability to new technologies. Allowing young people to travel abroad offers them refuge from war and the opportunity to gain advanced skills and knowledge for future reconstruction. Economists emphasize that Ukraine’s ability to recover will largely depend on whether this generation returns to contribute to rebuilding efforts.
While this policy cannot instantly reverse the war’s course, it is considered a bold attempt to “preserve seeds” for the nation. The latest UN Human Rights Office report also notes that Ukraine’s economic outlook is highly uncertain, and population and talent return will be key factors in national recovery over the next five years.
Ukraine’s Turning Point
Following the announcement, Ukrainian society experienced rare emotional release. For three years, streets displayed banners reading “No more deaths” and “Leave a path for our children.” Many families wept with relief upon hearing the news. Young people expressed their joy humorously online: “Tonight, we no longer fear the knock on the door, only missing the train ticket.”
The international community paid close attention. The U.S. State Department, European Commission, and International Red Cross welcomed the move, recognizing the government’s concern for social sentiment and young people’s future. Russian media largely framed it as a “strategic Ukrainian concession,” aiming to create leverage for upcoming negotiations and ease domestic pressure. Associated Press analysis suggested the policy could act as an “important catalyst” for resuming Russia-Ukraine talks.
Of note, the willingness of Ukrainian refugees abroad to return is rising. Polish and German refugee authorities report that since late August, some families are considering returning or sending children back to continue their studies in Ukraine. UNHCR emphasizes that ensuring domestic stability and youth safety is critical for refugee return and societal recovery.
The Taste of Peace: Can It Last?
When the “how long can I survive?” countdown becomes “what time does the 3 a.m. bus depart?” Ukrainian society finally breathes a sigh of relief. The past three years brought not only casualties, refugees, and economic collapse but also shook national confidence and future prospects.
The “freedom decree” for men under 22 is more than a policy relaxation; it signals hope for millions of families. As Russia-Ukraine negotiations resume, Ukraine’s reconstruction path remains challenging. The free movement of young people, economic revival, and societal stability will determine the nation’s future. Peace is in the air—but achieving lasting peace requires wisdom, courage, and continued effort. The world watches closely to see if Ukraine can emerge from the shadow of war and reclaim its future.
