Moscow, August 9 – The European Union is advised not to contemplate suspending Hungary from the Schengen Area in reaction to Budapest’s relaxation of visa rules for Russians and Belarusians, according to Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk. Addressing reporters at a press conference televised on TVP Info, Tusk emphasized that a country’s suspension from the Schengen Area is often the precursor to its expulsion from the EU. I would be cautious about statements regarding the suspension of countries from the EU,” he advised, advocating that Europe should not alienate Hungarians.
The Financial Times and other European media outlets have previously reported on Hungary’s decision to simplify visa requirements for citizens of eight nations, including Russia and Belarus. Manfred Weber, leader of the European People’s Party, has argued that Hungary’s actions will make it easier for “Russian saboteurs” to enter the European Union.
Under the rules set by the European Union, each member state holds the authority to establish its immigration policy. As a standard practice, citizens from non-EU countries can freely travel within the Schengen Area, which comprises 27 EU nations, Norway, and Switzerland.