**Latvia Calls for EU-Wide Halt to Russian Visas Over Security Concerns**
In a move to address rising security threats from Moscow, Latvia is urging all European Union (EU) member states to suspend the issuance of visas to Russian citizens. This call comes as concerns over the abuse of Schengen visas and diplomatic privileges have grown amid a wave of suspected Russian sabotage and espionage on EU soil.
According to Latvian Foreign Minister Baiba Braze, the number of Schengen visas issued to Russian nationals increased by 25% in 2024 compared to the previous year. This has led Latvia to call for an EU-wide halt to visa issuance for Russian citizens, citing security concerns. The Schengen visa allows holders to travel freely across 29 European countries for up to 90 days in any 180-day period.
**A Growing Trend of Restrictions**
While some EU countries have restricted or halted visa issuance to Russian citizens, others have continued processing applications, keeping a legal pathway open for Russian travel to the bloc. However, with Latvia’s call, the momentum is shifting towards stricter measures. In September 2022, Latvia imposed entry restrictions on Russian citizens as part of a joint agreement with Lithuania, Estonia, and Poland. Czechia implemented similar restrictions in October 2022.
**Concerns Over Sabotage and Espionage**
Concerns over the abuse of Schengen visas and diplomatic privileges have grown amid a wave of suspected Russian sabotage and espionage on EU soil. On April 15, Polish media outlet Rzeczpospolita reported that Poland and Czechia are leading a new effort to restrict the movement of Russian diplomats within the Schengen zone. This initiative targets individuals alleged to be operating under diplomatic cover while serving Russian military intelligence (GRU) and other security services.
EU intelligence and security agencies have warned of mounting Russian sabotage operations, including several arson attacks believed to have been coordinated by Moscow. With Latvia’s call for an EU-wide halt to visa issuance for Russian citizens, it is clear that the bloc is taking a stronger stance against these security threats.
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