We are a country with 32 million people, – Minister of National Unity Chernyshov

This was stated by Deputy Prime Minister - Minister of National Unity Oleksiy Chernyshov in an interview with Welt.

In his opinion, at the time of gaining independence in 1991, the population of Ukraine was 52 million people. Ten years later, this number decreased to 48 million, and at the beginning of Russia’s first invasion, it was 45 million. After the annexation of Crimea in 2015, the population decreased to 42 million, and in 2024, to 32 million.

"This is a dramatic figure. However, there is good news: overall, we are a nation of 60 million people. The challenge is that almost half of them are outside the country: those who left before the large invasion, war refugees, and representatives of the diaspora," Chernyshov noted.

At the same time, the Deputy Prime Minister expressed hope that after the war ends, about 30% of Ukrainians will consider returning. Others will need additional conditions, and some Ukrainians will remain abroad.

"But even they can be beneficial for Ukraine. They are already supporting Ukrainian society, the army, and providing assistance. I am proud of them. Everyone has their own role in this war," Chernyshov emphasized.