Hungary recently decided to simplify the visa process and entry conditions for citizens of Russia and Belarus, raising serious concerns among European Union countries. Following Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s visit to Moscow, the Hungarian government expanded the issuance of the “national card,” which allows Russians and Belorussians to work in the country for two years with the possibility of extension. This decision poses significant risks to the national security of the EU.
European leaders are worried about the potential use of these simplified entry conditions for Russian espionage activities. The lack of proper security checks during the entry of Russian and Belarusian citizens into Hungary could lead to the infiltration of Russian intelligence agents into the EU.
Anita Hipper, a spokesperson for the European Commission, stated that the EU will be in contact with the Hungarian authorities to clarify the scope of this scheme and its compliance with EU regulations. Hipper emphasized that all instruments must guarantee the security of the EU and the Schengen area. Hungary must also continually ensure that all entry conditions stipulated by Article 6 of the Schengen Borders Code are met.
The European People’s Party (EPP) has called on the EU to take urgent measures in response to Hungary’s decision. In a letter to European Council President Charles Michel, EPP leader Manfred Weber stressed that Hungary’s new policy allows unchecked Russians to travel freely within the EU, causing serious national security concerns. Weber also warned that Hungary’s expedited visa system would create opportunities for espionage activities and allow a large number of Russians to enter Hungary with minimal control.
Lithuania has also expressed its intention to challenge Hungary’s decision to simplify entry conditions for Russian and Belarusian citizens. Lithuanian Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis stated that Hungary’s move raises concerns among European countries and emphasized the need for an EU-level response. Lithuania plans to appeal to the European Commission to review this decision to prevent potential risks.
EU leaders are calling for coordinated efforts to protect the integrity of the Schengen area and plan to discuss this issue at the upcoming summit in October to take necessary measures to prevent similar initiatives in the future.
However, there are justified concerns that by October, many dozens of Russian spies will be able to enter the Schengen zone without checks. This case once again confirms the need to develop a faster mechanism for responding to Hungary’s actions than the existing ones – which are too slow and soft – within the legal framework of the EU.
