Zelenskyy Outlines First Countries for Potential Dual Citizenship Agreements

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has announced the initial group of countries with which Ukraine may launch formal procedures to implement dual citizenship agreements, following the recent adoption of a law allowing multiple citizenships.

The Gaze writes about it, referring to Zelenskyy’s statement during the annual Ambassadors’ Conference.

The Ukrainian President emphasized that the move is aimed at strengthening ties between Ukraine and its global diaspora, particularly in light of the mass displacement caused by Russia’s full-scale invasion.

“We will gradually determine the list of countries with which the relevant procedures will be launched. I was thinking of starting with the countries where the largest number of Ukrainians are currently residing,” Zelenskyy said. “These are primarily countries such as Germany, Poland, the Czech Republic, and the Baltic states.”

The president noted that the final list of partner countries will be developed in consultation with Prime Minister Yuliia Svyrydenko, Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, and Speaker of the Verkhovna Rada Ruslan Stefanchuk.

He also stressed the importance of including countries that have shown consistent support for Ukraine over the years. 

"Of course, we should also be thinking about Canada and other countries where there are many Ukrainians and where Ukraine receives strong support. This is also an important aspect which countries have traditionally stood with us, traditionally supported us, and are warm towards Ukrainians, very warm and important for Ukraine," Zelenskyy added.

The idea of legalizing multiple citizenships has been discussed in Ukraine for years, gaining renewed urgency after the Russian invasion in 2022. 

As The Gaze reported earlier, on June 18, Ukraine's Parliament has adopted a landmark piece of legislation that introduces the legal framework for multiple citizenship.