Brussels prepares to tighten visa rules for Russians over hybrid attack risks

Preparation of new restrictions in Brussels

The European Commission is developing a package of measures to worsen the conditions for obtaining visas for Russian citizens. According to Politico, the initiative is driven by the growing risk of hybrid threats, particularly diversionary acts and sabotage on the territory of the European Union. Official proposals are expected to be presented in early next year.

The decision on the need to change the approach was made following successive calls from several member states, including Poland, Sweden, and Estonia. These countries insisted on the implementation of stricter entry rules for representatives of the Russian Federation.

Stockholm's position and system vulnerabilities

Swedish Justice Minister Gunnar Strömmer noted that the current visa infrastructure has vulnerabilities that could be exploited by forces hostile to Europe. He emphasised that against the backdrop of a wave of concern regarding sabotage, arson, and other hybrid operations linked to Moscow, strengthening control has become a priority task.

According to Strömmer, the European Commission plans to publish details of the new regulation as early as January. Meanwhile, the Swedish side expresses a desire for this to happen sooner. The minister also noted positive dynamics in the discussions and growing support for a stricter visa regime among partners in the bloc.

Focus on former military personnel

The category of former Russian military personnel who participated in hostilities against Ukraine requires particular attention within the framework of the new strategy. Estonia is proposing to ban entry to the EU for such individuals. Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna estimates the number of former combatants at approximately 650,000 people.

Tsahkna emphasised that although restrictions can be applied to specific individuals, a coordinated approach at the level of the entire European Union is necessary to ensure real security. He expressed concern that some former military personnel may enter Europe with the support of Russian special services and pose a security threat. The minister also pointed to the risk of such individuals being involved in organised crime and terrorist acts.

Statistics and next steps

Last year, Russian citizens received approximately 478,000 Schengen area tourist visas. A significant portion of these documents was multiple-entry, allowing their holders to cross the borders of Schengen area countries multiple times.

Several EU member states intend to raise the issue of visa restrictions during a meeting of the EU Council on Foreign Affairs. During these discussions, the possibility of introducing additional restrictions for Russian diplomats is also planned to be discussed.