Germany wants stricter control on border with Hungary due to Orban's actions
The EU should tighten border controls with Hungary due to easier entry for Russians (photo: Getty Images)
Germany has called for tighter control of the border with Hungary. This was due to Budapest's simplification of entry into the country for Russians.
Michael Stübgen, the Minister of the Interior of the German state of Brandenburg, has called for tighter border controls on all EU borders with Hungary.
The official reminded that European treaties allow for border control in exceptional situations.
"Just as we do with Poland and the Czech Republic, countries such as Austria, Croatia, Slovakia and Romania should do the same. It is unacceptable for an EU country to allow Russians to enter the country virtually unchecked," the minister said.
German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser, in turn, noted that the risk of Russian espionage and sabotage is high and has become even more acute since the beginning of Russia's war against Ukraine.
"Therefore, all EU partners should step up their efforts to protect themselves from Russian espionage and sabotage and should not create potential loopholes," she emphasized.
Hungary simplifies entry conditions for Russians and Belarusians
Shortly after Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban's visit to Moscow, Hungary eased entry conditions for citizens of Russia and Belarus.
Budapest included citizens of these countries in the program of the so-called "national card", which is issued for 2 years with the possibility of extension for those who want to work in Hungary.
The EU reacted quickly to Hungary's actions. The head of the largest party in the European Parliament, the European People's Party, Manfred Weber, called for urgent measures to be taken against Hungary for issuing visas to Russia.
