Hungary’s National Card scheme simplifies visa procedures and security screenings for “guest workers” coming from Russia and Belarus.

The European Commission has asked Hungary to explain its recent decision to ease visa requirements for Russian and Belarusian citizens, which Brussels worries “could lead to a de facto circumvention” of the bloc’s restrictions and undermine safety standards across the passport-free Schengen Area.

“Russia is a security threat. We need more, not less vigilance. Giving potential Russian spies and saboteurs easy EU access would undermine the security of us all,” said Ylva Johansson, the Europen Commissioner for Home Affairs.

“If their easy access scheme is a risk, we will act.”

    • Gsus4@mander.xyz
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      3 months ago

      they kicked themselves out in all but name when they said that they would not veto anything as long as they didn’t have to do anything.

      • Gsus4@mander.xyz
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        3 months ago

        would be good, but it would remove Romania, Bulgaria and Greece from Schengen by land route…not sure of the impact it would have.

        • Justin@lemmy.jlh.name
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          3 months ago

          Schengen land border is currently at Hungary anyways, removing Hungary would not change the current status for those countries.

    • Vanon@lemmy.world
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      3 months ago

      Maybe the EU should just fight the (typically Russian) passive aggression with some of their own. “Delay” this asshole’s funding, while denying it. Ignore their requests, give them the runaround. Be a complete pain in the ass at every opportunity. Let Hungary pick themselves up by the bootstraps. Maybe they should vote for a better leader next time.