The EU is studying the possibility of excluding Hungary from the Schengen zone for issuing visas to Russians: Politico

European lawmakers are calling for action against Hungary over its decision to ease visa restrictions for citizens of Russia and Belarus. This issue is gaining momentum, and some MEPs are considering the possibility of excluding Hungary from the Schengen area. About this informs Politic.

The letter, initiated by the Czech deputy Danusha Nerudova and the Lithuanian parliamentarian Pietras Auštrevičius, demands that the European Commission conduct an urgent investigation into Hungary’s decision. Lawmakers fear that the decision could create a loophole that would threaten the security of the Schengen area.

The letter also contains a warning: “If the Hungarian government does not change its policy, the European Commission and EU representatives should consider the possibility of excluding Hungary from the Schengen zone and introducing new control measures at Hungary’s borders to protect European citizens.”

The document states that other EU countries may not recognize Hungarian visas and introduce border controls with Hungary.

By Sunday evening, the letter had collected about 70 signatures, including the signatures of the former prime ministers of Belgium and Ireland.

Hungary simplified entry conditions for Russians and Belarusians

After the visit of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán to Moscow, Hungary simplified the conditions of entry for citizens of Russia and Belarus. Budapest has included citizens of these countries in the national card program, which is issued for two years with the possibility of an extension for those who plan to work in Hungary.

This decision caused a sharp reaction in the EU. Manfred Weber, head of the European Parliament’s largest party, the European People’s Party, called for immediate measures against Hungary for issuing visas to citizens of the Russian Federation.