Moscow Prepares Countermeasures After EU Visa Ban on Russian Nationals
Deputy Minister Confirms Reciprocal Response
MOSCOW — Russia is preparing reciprocal measures in response to the European Union’s recent ban on granting multiple-entry Schengen visas to Russian citizens, Deputy Foreign Minister Dmitry Lyubinsky announced on Tuesday.
Speaking at a commemorative event in Moscow, Lyubinsky emphasized that any unfriendly actions from the EU would lead to proportionate countersteps.
Russia to Assess Impact Before Acting
“Every unfriendly move will receive a corresponding reaction,” Lyubinsky said. “Our response may not always mirror the original action, but we will carefully evaluate how these restrictions affect us and determine our next steps accordingly.”
He noted that Moscow’s approach would depend on the scope and severity of the ongoing visa restrictions imposed by the European Union.
EU Tightens Visa Policy for Russians
The European Commission introduced the new ban on multiple-entry Schengen visas for Russian nationals on Nov. 6, citing ongoing political tensions between Moscow and Brussels.
The decision further limits Russian citizens’ ability to travel freely across the EU and reflects the bloc’s continued tightening of policies amid deteriorating relations with Russia.