The Bulgarian government made the decision. Sofia Globe reports.

The Ukraine refugee assistance program has been extended until December 31, 2024.

Since russia invaded Ukraine, about 2.5 million Ukrainians have entered Bulgaria. Over 180,000 people were registered under the EU’s temporary protection scheme.

About 55,000 Ukrainians are still in Bulgaria. Over 6,000 have been resettled.

The Council of the European Union has decided to extend the temporary protection currently in place for Ukrainians until 2026.