Fact Check: "Ukraine's new law allows dual citizenship, defying constitutional norms."
What We Know
On January 22, 2024, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced a key draft law aimed at introducing multiple citizenship in Ukraine. He emphasized that this legislation would allow ethnic Ukrainians and their descendants worldwide to obtain Ukrainian citizenship, with the exception of citizens from "aggressor countries," referring primarily to Russia (source-1). This move is seen as a response to the ongoing conflict with Russia and aims to strengthen ties with the Ukrainian diaspora.
Historically, Ukraine's constitution has prohibited dual citizenship. Article 4 of the Ukrainian Law on Citizenship states that Ukrainian citizenship cannot be held simultaneously with citizenship of another country. However, the proposed legislation seeks to amend this provision, which has led to debates about its constitutionality (source-2).
In June 2025, the Ukrainian parliament approved a law allowing dual citizenship, which aims to address demographic challenges and strengthen the nation's ties with its diaspora (source-3).
Analysis
The claim that Ukraine's new law allows dual citizenship while defying constitutional norms is partially true. The proposed legislation indeed introduces the possibility of multiple citizenship, which conflicts with existing constitutional provisions that prohibit it. Critics argue that this change undermines the rule of law and could lead to complications regarding national identity and allegiance, especially in the context of ongoing conflict with Russia (source-3).
Supporters of the law, including President Zelenskyy, argue that it is a necessary step to recognize the contributions of the Ukrainian diaspora and to strengthen national unity against external threats. They contend that allowing dual citizenship is a pragmatic response to the realities of modern geopolitics and the need for Ukraine to maintain strong ties with its global community (source-1).
The reliability of sources discussing the constitutional implications varies. Official statements from the Ukrainian government and reputable news outlets like Reuters provide a factual basis for the claim, while opinions from critics may reflect political biases. Thus, while the law is a significant shift in policy, its constitutionality remains a contentious issue that will likely require judicial review or further legislative clarification (source-3, source-8).
Conclusion
The claim that "Ukraine's new law allows dual citizenship, defying constitutional norms" is partially true. The law does indeed introduce provisions for dual citizenship, which contradict existing constitutional norms. However, it is also a response to contemporary challenges and aims to strengthen Ukraine's ties with its diaspora amidst ongoing conflict. The full implications of this law, particularly regarding its constitutional validity, remain to be seen as it is implemented and potentially challenged in courts.
Sources
- President of Ukraine initiates a key bill that will enable the ...
- Ukraine - Wikipedia
- Ukraine allows multiple citizenship as war drags on
- Ukraine War | Latest News & Updates| BBC News
- Latest Ukraine and Russia at War News - reuters.com
- Russia-Ukraine | Breaking News & Live Updates | AP News
- Ukrainian nationality law
- Ukraine Takes First Steps to Allowing Dual Citizenship, But... - KyivPost
