Denmark refuses to accept Ukrainian refugees hoping to move to 3rd state

By Atilla Altuntas

STOCKHOLM (AA) - Denmark on Tuesday refused to accept hundreds of refugees from Ukraine who wanted to move to third countries.

The Jutland Border Police noted in a statement that Ukrainian refugees from Germany were not admitted to the country, adding that 250 people from Ukraine have been sent back to Germany since Friday.

Denmark cannot be used as a "transit country" for refugees, it said, adding that refugees will not be admitted unless they request asylum.

Meanwhile, state television DR reported that hundreds of refugees who came from Germany en route to Sweden and Norway were not permitted entry on grounds they did not want to stay and were sent back to Germany.

Danish Integration Minister Mattias Tesfaye said he found it right that refugees from Ukraine should not be allowed to travel via Denmark to reach one of the Scandinavian countries.

He said Denmark will not let Ukrainian refugees use the state as a transit country without being registered and identified in the system, and he emphasized that they are responsible for the security of Denmark and refugees in question can seek asylum in Denmark by submitting necessary documents.

The Russia-Ukraine war has drawn international condemnation, led to financial sanctions on Moscow and spurred an exodus of global firms from Russia.

At least 636 civilians have been killed and 1,125 injured in Ukraine since the beginning of the war, according to the UN.

It noted, however, that the true toll is likely much higher as access to areas of increased hostilities remains restricted.

About 3 million people have fled to neighboring countries, said the UN refugee agency.

*Writing by Jeyhun Aliyev from Ankara