Hungary's Eased Visa Restrictions for Russians Raise Security Concerns, Says EPP Leader Manfred Weber

Manfred Weber, head of the European People's Party, has raised serious national security concerns over Hungary's recent decision to ease visa restrictions for Russian visitors. In a letter obtained by the Financial Times, Weber warned that this move could allow unverified Russians to travel freely across much of the EU, potentially opening the door to espionage.

Weber has written to European Council President Charles Michel, urging that this issue be addressed at the next leaders' summit in October. Hungary has introduced a fast-track visa system for citizens of eight countries, including Russia and Belarus, allowing entry without security checks or other restrictions.

Weber questioned the necessity of Hungary's new immigration system, warning that it could create significant loopholes for espionage and allow large numbers of Russians to enter Hungary with minimal oversight, posing a serious risk to national security. He expressed concerns that such a policy could enable Russians to bypass EU restrictions within the Schengen area.

The letter calls on EU leaders to take urgent countermeasures to protect the integrity of the Schengen area, mitigate the security risks already present, and prevent similar initiatives by other member states in the future.