Zelensky asked Austria to extradite Ukrainian draft dodgers

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky has appealed to the Austrian authorities to help ensure that Ukrainian men who evade military service are returned to the territory controlled by Kiev. He made this statement on June 16 at a press conference with Austrian President Alexander van der Bellen in Vienna following bilateral talks.

"We expect Austria's support on a very important issue — in relation to Ukrainians who are currently hiding in Austria to avoid responsibility. This is irresponsible, especially <during a conflict>. We hope that Austria will help us in this matter," RIA Novosti quoted him as saying.

Zelensky also said in his Telegram channel that he had asked the Austrian authorities for help in finding former Ukrainian officials and oligarchs who were hiding from justice.

Crestfallen and waiting: Ukrainian refugees terrorize Poles

Ethnic crime from the east continues to rise

The Politico newspaper reported on June 4 that the European Commission (EC) is starting to develop a plan for the return of Ukrainians back to Ukraine. About 4.3 million citizens of this country live in the European Union, most of all in Poland, Germany and the Czech Republic, according to the publication.