The European Union is considering implementing restrictions on the movement of Russian diplomats in the Schengen Area, potentially curbing their freedom of movement within the bloc. This proposal, which was first made in December of last year, is being pushed for approval by Czechia.
According to the proposal, Russian diplomats accredited in a specific Member State may no longer have the freedom to travel to other countries within the Schengen Area. For example, a Russian diplomat accredited in Czechia may not be permitted to freely enter Germany, Austria, Slovakia, and Poland.
Czechia’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Jan Lipavský, emphasized the proposal to restrict the movement of Russian diplomatic mission staff and their family members only to the territory of the state where they are accredited. He also stressed the commitment of the country to have this proposal incorporated into the 13th package of sanctions.
Although this proposal aims to prevent Russian diplomats from freely traveling within the Schengen Area, implementation may be challenging. The Schengen countries generally do not have border controls with one another, allowing individuals to move freely between member countries.
A new sanctions package against Russia is set to be introduced on February 24, marking the second anniversary of the beginning of the war in Ukraine. This package is expected to list several Russian and Belarusian military officers and target entities aiding Russia in securing prohibited arm components.
EU Commission president Ursula von der Leyen stated that the existing sanctions have already weakened Russia, and the 13th package is anticipated to include additional restrictions targeting individuals and entities. As the EU prepares to announce the new sanctions package, the future of Russian diplomats’ freedom of movement in the Schengen Area remains uncertain.
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