Hungary eases entry for Russians and Belarusians, Europe condemns move

Lithuania has condemned Hungary’s decision to simplify entry conditions for Russians and Belarusians, asserting that this move threatens EU security. Vilnius has requested the European Commission to analyze Budapest’s decision, according to BNS.

“We are dismayed by the media reports that Hungary has included Russian and Belarusian citizens in its national immigration program, which will allow them to travel freely within the Schengen Zone,” said Lithuanian Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis.

Landsbergis noted that Hungary made this decision at a time when European countries are facing increasingly active sabotage operations linked to Russian security and intelligence structures.

Landsbergis emphasized, “In Lithuania’s view, Hungary’s move poses very serious threats to the security of the Schengen Zone and many European countries and, therefore, needs to be addressed at the EU level.”

The incident highlights ongoing discussions within the EU about Hungary’s inability to refrain from actions that undermine common EU policies and interests, Landsbergis added.

In July, Hungary unveiled details of a new expedited visa system for citizens of eight countries, including Russia and Belarus. They will now be able to enter Hungary without security checks or other restrictions. Budapest has claimed that many of these individuals will be involved in building a nuclear power plant using Russian technology.

Earlier, Polish Deputy Foreign Minister Teofil Bartoszewski suggested that Hungary should leave the European Union. This came after anti-Polish statements made by Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán.