EU visas must be reduced for Russians, commissioner says
EU Internal Affairs Commissioner Magnus Brunner has called for a reduction in visas issued to Russian citizens, arguing that current levels are incompatible with the bloc's support for Ukraine. While some member states are already considering stricter measures, the proposal faces ongoing debate regarding the balance between humanitarian concerns and geopolitical sanctions.
Why it matters
This reflects the ongoing tension within the EU regarding how to maintain pressure on Russia while managing diplomatic and humanitarian obligations during the war in Ukraine.
The EU needs to do more on reducing the number of visas to Russian citizens, the bloc's internal affairs commissioner has said.
Commissioner Magnus Brunner said member states were being asked to reduce the number of visas issued to Russian citizens, suggesting current rates were incompatible with support for Ukraine.
Mr Brunner attended a meeting of justice and home affairs ministers in Dublin as part of Ireland’s presidency of the Council of the European Union.
Speaking to RTÉ News at the informal meeting of EU justice and home affairs ministers at Dublin Castle, Mr Brunner said that while this number is down from around four million visas per year before the war began, "it's still too many".
He said "yes I do agree" with a potential ban, adding: "I agree with the Baltic states and their worries that we need to do more."
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