EU Moves to Restrict Travel for Russian Diplomats Amid Espionage Concerns
The European Union is taking steps to limit the movement of Russian diplomats within its member states due to increasing concerns about espionage and sabotage activities. This action comes after intelligence agencies have reported a rise in hybrid operations allegedly coordinated by Russian operatives under diplomatic cover. The restrictions aim to curb potential threats and enhance oversight of foreign diplomats operating within the EU.
New Travel Restrictions Imposed
Under the new rules, Russian diplomats stationed in EU capitals will be required to notify host countries of their travel plans before crossing national borders. This initiative, spearheaded by the Czech Republic, is part of a broader package of sanctions being prepared in Brussels in response to Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The goal is to limit the mobility of suspected spies operating outside their accredited countries.
- Diplomats must notify host countries of travel plans.
- The Czech Republic initiated the proposal.
- The measures are part of a broader sanctions package against Russia.
Growing Support and Hungary's Shift
Support for the measure has grown over the past year, with several EU countries, including Denmark, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Poland, and Romania, backing the Czech proposal. Previously, Hungary had opposed the restrictions, but it has now lifted its veto, paving the way for EU-wide agreement on the travel limitations.
Potential Obstacles and Broader Sanctions
Legal approval of the sanctions package could face delays due to a dispute involving Austria. Vienna has proposed including a clause to lift sanctions on assets linked to Russian oligarch Oleg Deripaska to offset losses sustained by Raiffeisen Bank in Russia. However, several EU capitals have expressed opposition to linking this issue to the travel restrictions. Negotiations are ongoing to resolve the dispute. The European Commission announced earlier measures in September 2025, targeting banks and limiting energy revenues used to fund the war in Ukraine.
| Sanction Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Travel Restrictions | Russian diplomats must notify host countries of travel plans before crossing borders. |
| Financial Measures | Targeting banks and limiting energy revenues. |
Background of Espionage Concerns
The EU's new measure follows a history of Russian espionage on its soil, including a 2014 incident at a Czech ammunition depot that killed two people and was later attributed to GRU agents. The travel restrictions are intended not only to prevent further sabotage but also to ensure that EU countries have greater oversight of foreign diplomats operating within their territories.
