“The EC is considering additional restrictions on Schengen visas for citizens of the Russian Federation. Details and terms are not disclosed.”, — write: www.pravda.com.ua
illustrative photo by Getty images Source: “European truth”
Direct speech: “I can confirm that we are currently considering additional measures in close coordination with member states. But at this stage I would ask you to stay tuned.”
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Details: When asked about recent media reports about EU plans to ban multiple-entry Schengen visas to Russians, Lammert said: “We are aware of media reports, but we never comment on leaks.”
The spokesperson of the European Commission reminded that as early as 2022, the European Union suspended the Visa Facilitation Agreement with Russia.
“At the same time, we adopted a set of recommendations for member states, which provide for the rejection of priority for Russian applicants and focus on security and border control issues. The Commission closely monitors the implementation of these recommendations and works with member states to ensure their consistent application,” Lammert said.
He added that the number of Schengen visas issued to Russian citizens decreased from more than 4 million in 2019 to approximately 500,000 in 2023.
What happened before:
- According to some sources, the EU wants to strengthen visa rules for Russians by the end of the week.
- The EU has already made it more difficult for Russians to obtain visas, suspending a visa facilitation agreement with Russia at the end of 2022 following a full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine.
- Some member states, notably the Baltic states and Poland, have gone even further by banning or severely restricting the entry of Russians into their territory.