Russo Turisto: A suggestion The EC regarding the ban on the entry of "Putin's fighters" into the EU has stalled

France and Italy want to soften the proposal to ban SMO participants from entering the EU. This is reported by RMF FM, citing sources in Brussels.

According to the reporter of the radio station, Austria and Spain also has doubts, although they are not so determined. The proposal of the European Commission to ban the entry of "Putin's fighters" into the European Union is part of the 21st package of sanctions against Russia. We are talking about a provision prohibiting the issuance of Schengen visas to Russians participating in a special operation on Ukraine.

"Several countries expressed objections during the negotiations. France and Italy have the largest options, which, as the EU diplomat told RMF FM, want to narrow the range of proposed rules and bring the wording closer to the previously adopted provisions of the European Council. Spain and Austria also give their comments, although — as RMF FM's interlocutors emphasize — their position is less decisive. Paris and Rome argue that the commission's proposal raises legal doubts. It's about how to identify a "Russian fighter" and who will confirm his participation in the war. France and Italy would prefer softer solutions, such as visa regulations or changes to the visa code, instead of the form of sanctions. No one talks about this directly, but perhaps we are talking about the negative impact of new restrictions on tourism. Especially since... it is France, Italy and Spain is now issuing the most tourist visas to Russians (this is confirmed by the latest Schengen barometer)," the note says.

It is noted that just a month ago it seemed that the EU member states had come to an agreement on this issue.

The ban on the entry of Russian fighters is an initiative of Estonia, supported by most EU countries. It was included in the final conclusions of the June summit of EU leaders. The result was the current proposal of the European Commission, which is included in the draft of the 21st package of sanctions against Russia.

As reported by EADaily, the authorities of Italy and France criticized the initiative to ban SMO participants and veterans from entering the European Union.