EU asks Hungary to explain easing of visa rules for Russia, warning of security risks

GENEVA

The EU has asked Hungary to explain its recent decision to ease visa requirements on Russian and Belarusian nationals, warning of security risks.

In early July, when Hungary's EU presidency began and Prime Minister Viktor Orban's paid a controversial visit to Moscow, the country decided to expand its "national card" immigration program to include citizens of Russia and Belarusia.

Calling Russia a "security threat," EU Commissioner for Home Affairs Ylva Johansson said Thursday on X: "We need more, not less vigilance."

"Giving potential Russian spies and saboteurs easy EU access would undermine the security of us all. Today in a letter I ask the Hungarian government to explain," Johansson said.

She warned: "If their easy access scheme is a risk, we will act."

In the letter attached to Johansson's post, she said: "Given the potential security threat for the Schengen area of these unilateral measures, I invite your authorities to contact my services and reply to a number of questions annexed to this letter no later than 19 August."

"This will allow the Commission to ascertain whether the ‘National Card’ scheme for Russian and Belarusian nationals is compatible with EU law and/or whether it puts the overall functioning of the area without internal borders at risk, so to draw the appropriate consequences," she added.

The permit given by Hungary lasts two years and is renewable for another three, paving the way for permanent residency.