Two EU countries oppose entry ban on Russians who fought against Ukraine
Photo: Border guards in France (Getty Images)
Italy and France are wary of the EU proposal to ban former Russian military personnel from entering the bloc, Bloomberg reports.
The entry ban on former Russian servicemen is part of the proposed 21st package of sanctions against Russia. EU member states are expected to discuss the initiative as early as Friday.
Italy and France do not oppose the idea of banning participants in the war against Ukraine from entering Europe. However, they argue that such restrictions should be implemented through visa policy rather than sanctions mechanisms.
In addition, European diplomats point to challenges. The proposal would require member states to independently verify and determine who participated in combat operations, a task that would be extremely difficult to carry out.
EU leaders approved an unprecedented decision to extend sanctions against Russia for a full year. Previously, economic restrictions were traditionally renewed every six months.
At the same time, Brussels is increasing sanctions pressure on Moscow. The European Commission has unveiled details of the 21st sanctions package, which includes new restrictions on Russian citizens and companies, including measures related to entry into EU countries.
In addition, the new package will target Russia’s financial sector, crypto-asset operations, and trade. For the first time, Russia’s fishing industry will also be subject to sanctions.
