What's happened
The EU has suspended multiple-entry visas for Russian nationals, requiring them to apply for a new visa each time they travel. Exceptions are made for certain individuals. The move aims to enhance security amid ongoing tensions, following a decline in Russian visa issuance since 2022.
What's behind the headline?
The EU's decision to restrict Russian visas reflects a strategic shift towards heightened security measures amid ongoing geopolitical tensions. By requiring single-entry visas, the EU aims to conduct closer scrutiny of applicants, reducing potential security risks. This move also signals a broader effort to limit Russian influence and mobility within Europe. The exceptions for dissidents and human rights defenders suggest a nuanced approach, balancing security with diplomatic considerations. The policy aligns with recent actions, such as urging Serbia to cease granting Russian citizenship, indicating a comprehensive strategy to tighten borders and control Russian access. This will likely lead to further diplomatic friction and could impact tourism and business travel, but it underscores the EU's prioritization of security over ease of movement. The move also highlights the EU's ongoing response to perceived threats, including drone disruptions and sabotage, emphasizing that free movement is now viewed as a privilege, not a right.
What the papers say
The articles from AP News, The Independent, The Moscow Times, and Politico collectively depict a coordinated effort by the EU to tighten border controls on Russian nationals. AP News and The Independent emphasize the practical implications, noting the requirement for new visas and the decline in Russian visa issuance since 2022. The Moscow Times highlights Russia's official response, criticizing the move as dismissive of Russian tourists and citing the broader context of EU-Russia relations. Politico frames the policy as part of the EU's ongoing punitive measures following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, noting that some member states, like the Baltic countries, have already imposed stricter restrictions. The contrasting tone between the EU's security rationale and Russia's criticism underscores the geopolitical divide, with the EU emphasizing security and Russia framing the restrictions as hostile and unjustified.
How we got here
Following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022, the EU suspended its visa facilitation agreement with Russia and made visa applications more difficult. The number of visas issued to Russians dropped significantly from over 4 million in 2019 to around 500,000 in 2023. The new restrictions are part of broader efforts to limit Russian access to Europe and address security concerns.
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Common question
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Why Has the EU Suspended Multiple-Entry Visas for Russians?
The European Union has recently suspended multiple-entry visas for Russian nationals, requiring travelers to apply for a new visa each time they visit. This move is part of broader security measures amid ongoing tensions between Russia and the EU. But what does this mean for Russian travelers and the broader geopolitical landscape? Below, we answer the most common questions about these new visa rules and their implications.
More on these topics
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The European Union is a political and economic union of 27 member states that are located primarily in Europe. Its members have a combined area of 4,233,255.3 km² and an estimated total population of about 447 million.
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Maria Vladimirovna Zakharova is the Director of the Information and Press Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation from 10 August 2015. She has a degree of Candidate in Historical Sciences, the Russian equivalent of a PhD.