EPP Raises Alarm Over Hungary's Visa Easements for Russians, Belarusians

The European People's Party (EPP) has expressed security concerns regarding Hungary's decision to ease visa restrictions for Russian and Belarusian citizens. The new policy is feared to facilitate espionage and allow Russians to bypass Schengen area restrictions. This move has exacerbated tensions between Hungary and EU institutions.

The European People's Party (EPP) has raised security concerns over Hungary's decision to ease visa restrictions for Russian and Belarusian citizens, fearing it could fuel espionage within the EU, according to a letter seen by Reuters.

Manfred Weber, chair of the centre-right EPP, wrote to European Council head Charles Michel to stress that the new Hungarian rules could "create grave loopholes for espionage activities... posing a serious risk to national security". Weber noted that this policy could also make it easier for Russians to move around the borderless Schengen area, bypassing EU law restrictions.

The letter, initially reported by the Financial Times, underscores tensions between EU institutions and Hungary, which currently holds the bloc's rotating presidency. Amidst the ongoing Ukraine war, Hungary remains keen to maintain cordial ties with Russia.

A European Commission spokesperson indicated that the Commission would be in contact with Hungary regarding compliance with Schengen regulations. Hungary extended its "national card" immigration program to Russians and Belarusians, allowing cardholders to work in Hungary without security clearance and bring families along.

Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto clarified that Russian and Belarusian citizens still require a visa to enter Hungary and the Schengen area. Residency permits will need authorization from relevant authorities. The visa decision comes a year after the U.S. imposed sanctions on officials of Budapest's Russian-controlled International Investment Bank.

This policy shift occurs amidst Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban's controversial visit to Moscow to discuss a potential peace deal with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Orban has openly criticized Western military aid to Ukraine, increasing friction with EU partners.