If an ex says they don't have time for anyone romantically, it typically means that they are not currently interested in pursuing a romantic relationship with anyone, including you. This statement suggests that they are prioritizing other aspects of their life and are not emotionally available for a romantic commitment at this time.
However, their desire to see you and hang out might indicate that they still value your friendship or enjoy spending time with you in a non-romantic context. It's possible that they want to maintain a platonic relationship or keep you as a friend despite not wanting to rekindle the romantic aspect of your past relationship.
It's essential to approach this situation with clear communication and set appropriate boundaries. If you are comfortable with being friends and spending time together without any romantic expectations, that's fine. However, if you still have feelings for your ex and being around them is challenging for you emotionally, it might be better to take some time apart to heal and move on.
Remember that staying friends with an ex can be a complicated matter and may not work for everyone. It's essential to prioritize your well-being and emotional health. If you find that being friends with your ex is causing you distress or preventing you from moving forward, it's okay to step back and focus on your own healing and growth.