European Commission Bans Issuance of New Multiple Entry Visas for Russian Citizens

The European Commission (EC) has announced a ban on issuing new multiple entry Schengen visas to Russian citizens. This decision was based on increased security risks associated with the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Moscow is alleged to be using migration as a tool for sabotage. The ban was a result of a joint assessment by member states within the local Schengen cooperation in Russia, approved by all countries. Executive Vice-President for Technological Sovereignty, Security, and Democracy, Henna Virkkunen, highlighted that by tightening visa rules, they are taking necessary steps to ensure EU and its citizens’ safety.