Kallas sees broad EU support for visa ban on Russian soldiers

The European Union is moving toward tougher visa restrictions for Russians, according to EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas, who said broad support emerged at an informal foreign ministers' meeting in Ireland.

The proposed measures would target Russians who took part in the war against Ukraine and would impose stricter limits on Russian tourists. Kallas said many people did not consider it fair for Russians to enjoy European hospitality while Russia carried out attacks on civilians in Ukraine over the summer.

“

Many people do not think it is fair for Russians to enter Europe and enjoy the hospitality of European countries while Russia has carried out attacks on civilians in Ukraine over the summer.

She was also asked about new information concerning a drone attack in Leipzig. German authorities identified Russia as responsible for the attack on Tuesday. According to information reported by the German news agency dpa, one suspect may have entered the EU on a tourist visa issued by Italy.

Kallas said German authorities would need to confirm the information. If it proved true, she said, it would show that visas could serve as a tool for people intending to cause harm inside the EU. She added that several member states had previously warned that tourist visas could be used in sabotage attacks, and said the information might persuade countries that had opposed restrictions.

“

If that is true, it clearly shows that visas are a weapon for people who want to cause harm in the EU.

Italy and France have been the main opponents of visa limits during negotiations over the EU's 21st sanctions package against Russia. Their tourism industries have earned money from Russian visitors for many years.

Kallas said EU countries would continue working on tighter sanctions after the Leipzig attack. One proposal would expand a sanctions list covering about 1,600 Russian individuals and entities involved in producing drones and missiles used against Ukraine. At least one member state presented additional names for possible inclusion, which will now be examined. Kallas said the goal was to reach agreement at the foreign ministers' meeting in October.

“

Today, at least one member state mentioned that it has additional proposals for who should be placed on the sanctions list.