The European Commission is developing new measures to restrict visa access for Russian tourists, aiming to mitigate the risks of hybrid warfare within the bloc. This initiative follows persistent advocacy from nations such as Poland, Estonia, and Sweden, who argue that the current system poses significant security vulnerabilities. Last year, nearly half a million Schengen tourist visas were granted to Russian nationals, many of which allowed for frequent, undocumented travel. Officials are concerned that this ease of movement facilitates sabotage and other hostile activities orchestrated by Moscow. Consequently, the proposed policy changes seek to tighten oversight and limit the issuance of multiple-entry permits to better protect European borders against potential threats linked to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Source : Politico Europe
