EU could expel Hungary from Schengen area over Russians' visa issuance - Politico
Photo: Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán (Getty Images)
The confrontation over Hungary's decision to ease visa restrictions for Russian and Belarusian citizens is growing. A group of lawmakers in the European Parliament has called for action against Budapest, including the possibility of expelling Hungary from the Schengen area, Politico reports.
The letter, initiated by Czech MP Danuše Nerudová and Lithuanian MP Petras Auštrevičius, demands that the European Commission urgently investigate Hungary's decision. The lawmakers argue that this decision could become a loophole and threaten the functioning of the Schengen area as a safe space for citizens.
The letter also contains a warning that if the Hungarian government refuses to change its policy, the European Commission and all EU representatives should question the Hungarian presence in the Schengen area by introducing new measures to protect European citizens, including, if necessary, new control measures at the Hungarian borders.
The document mentions the possibility that other EU countries may not recognize Hungarian visas and impose controls on Hungary's border.
By Sunday evening, the letter had collected about 70 signatures, including those of former prime ministers of Belgium and Ireland.
Hungary simplifies entry conditions for Russians and Belarusians
Shortly after Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán visited Moscow, Hungary eased entry conditions for Russian and Belarusian citizens. Budapest included citizens of these countries in the national card program, which is issued for two years with the possibility of extension for those who plan to work in Hungary.
These actions by Hungary quickly provoked a reaction in the EU. Manfred Weber, chairman of the European Parliament's largest party, the European People's Party, called for immediate measures against Hungary for issuing visas to Russian citizens.
