Ministers from eight Baltic and Northern European countries have sent a letter to European Commissioner for Home Affairs Ylva Johansson expressing concern over Hungary’s decision to ease visa requirements for Russian and Belarusian citizens.
Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna shared the text of the joint letter on social media.
The letter was signed by the Foreign Ministers and Ministers of the Interior and Justice from Denmark, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden.
"Russia continues its unprovoked aggressive war against Ukraine. There are ongoing reports of atrocities and repeated violations of international law. Additionally, Russia has intensified its aggressive hybrid actions against the EU and Schengen area countries," the letter states.
The ministers expressed concern over recent news regarding Hungary’s decision to extend its "national card" system to Russian and Belarusian citizens.
"Whether this falls under the jurisdiction of national authorities or the EU, we are worried that it may pose serious security risks to all member states," the letter emphasizes.
The ministers welcomed the European Commission's involvement in addressing this issue.
"Hungary’s response, your analysis, and the subsequent steps will be crucial for ensuring our security," they stated.
