Under the current EU steel safeguard measure, Ukraine has an exemption that runs until summer 2028.
88% confidence
EconomyUkraine
Omissions
The exact date of the exemption's expiration is 5 June 2028, which falls at the very beginning of meteorological summer; the phrase 'summer 2028' is a reasonable approximation but slightly imprecise.
The 'current' EU steel safeguard measure (under Regulation 2015/478) was set to expire on 30 June 2026 and be replaced by new rules adopted by the Council on 8 June 2026. The Ukraine exemption was deliberately extended beyond the lifespan of the current safeguard. The claim omits this context, which could give the impression that the safeguard measure itself runs until 2028.
One source (Council press release of 8 June 2026) confirming the safeguard replacement was published after the session date of 18 May 2026; however, the Commission had already proposed the new rules in March 2025, so the expiration of the current safeguard was foreseeable.
Sources
PrimaryEUR-Lex (Official Journal of the EU)This Regulation shall enter into force on 6 June 2025. It shall apply from 6 June 2025 until 5 June 2028.
PrimaryCouncil of the European Union (Press Release)The Council has adopted today a regulation to extend the suspension of EU safeguard measures on iron and steel, in support of Ukraine's economy amid Russia's war of aggression. The suspension is extended for three years, from 6 June 2025 until 5 June 2028.
PrimaryEuropean Commission (Policy Trade)The Commission proposed continuing the suspension of certain parts of Regulation (EU) 2015/478 as regards imports from Ukraine. Ukraine has been granted an exemption to the EU steel safeguard measure as part of the EU's support.
PrimaryCouncil of the European Union (Press Release)The new rules will replace the current EU steel safeguard measure, which expires on 30 June 2026, ensuring continued protection for the EU steel market.