EU may soften entry ban for participants of war against Ukraine – media

The European Union is currently considering a scaled-back version of its proposed visa ban for individuals who fought in Ukraine on Russia's side. The measure would be part of the 21st sanctions package against Russia, which must be approved by July 15.

According to the latest proposal, the ban would apply only to short-term visas and only to those directly involved in combat operations in Ukraine since Russia's full-scale invasion began in February 2022. This narrower approach was proposed by Ireland, which currently holds the rotating presidency of the EU Council, to address objections from France and Italy. These countries argued against a full ban, saying the issue should be handled through visa policy rather than sanctions, and warned of practical difficulties for states processing large numbers of visa applications from Russian citizens.

The initial proposal had a much broader scope, covering anyone performing any role in the Russian armed forces, including administrative and logistical functions. The revised version targets only those who serve or have served in the Russian armed forces or irregular formations under Moscow's control or acting in its interests, and who directly participated in combat. Unlike the original version, it no longer presumes that an applicant participated in the war unless they can prove otherwise.

The range of exceptions has also been expanded. Originally, the only exemption was for applicants who could prove they had deserted from the Russian army or opposed Russia's war of aggression. The latest version allows entry or transit for humanitarian reasons, in the national interest, or due to international obligations. In these exceptional cases, the visa is limited to the territory of the issuing EU member state, and the holder cannot travel to other member states without that country's consent.

Separately, Bulgaria has stated it will block the 21st sanctions package because it includes Patriarch Kirill of the Russian Orthodox Church. Italy later joined with similar arguments.