Municipalities in the Netherlands are warning that their capacity to accept Ukrainians arriving for temporary protection is nearly exhausted. The Association of Municipalities (VNG) has described the situation as "critical" and has urged the government to intervene.

According to NOS, about 300 Ukrainians arrive in the Netherlands each week, while there are almost no available places for accommodation. Most of the refugees are women with children, although men who are aware of job opportunities also arrive.

In Utrecht, authorities have already had to refuse registration to newly arrived Ukrainians. Local officials also warn that existing shelters may close due to a lack of funds.

Refugee centers are often housed in buildings not owned by municipalities, leading to additional rental costs. Moreover, landlords of offices that could be converted into housing demand financial guarantees, complicating the search for new accommodations.

In Dordrecht, near Rotterdam, regular refusals of newly arrived Ukrainian refugees occur. Local authorities are uncertain where to place half of the current residents as the lease for their building ends in February, and alternatives have yet to be found.

Meanwhile, the law requires municipalities to accept people. In Groningen, there was a case where Ukrainian citizens challenged a refusal in court, won the case, and the city filed an appeal.

Local authorities insist on the need for a "long-term plan and additional funding" from the government. The Ministry of Migration and Asylum acknowledges the complexity of the situation and is considering possible solutions, including co-paying for housing for Ukrainians who have income.

It is noteworthy that the Netherlands ranks fourth in the EU for the number of accepted Ukrainians per capita, following the Czech Republic, Poland, and Germany.