Ukraine and Russia Face Demographic Crisis After the War: WSJ Forecast.

Ukraine and Russia may face a demographic crisis due to the death and injury of servicemen during hostilities. Additionally, Ukrainian territories may be "absorbed" by Russia to increase its population at the expense of Ukrainians. Many Ukrainians have been leaving the country over the past ten years, leading to a decrease in Ukraine's population. Putin hoped to solve the demographic crisis by occupation and issuing Russian passports, but the plan failed as many people began to leave Russia. It is worth noting that many young professionals left Russia after 2022. Fewer people are leaving Ukraine due to the ongoing hostilities.

According to the WSJ, Ukraine's population decreased from 48 million to 40 million people by 2022. According to the UN, over 6 million people have left Ukraine since the start of the war, and the territory controlled by Kyiv has decreased to 25-27 million people. The demographic situation continues to deteriorate due to the prolonged war.

Experts believe that the most likely return of Ukrainians from abroad will be among highly qualified specialists, who the country is losing. Previously, there was a proposal to introduce a "demographic levy" due to the demographic situation in Ukraine, but the bill was withdrawn.