European states are discussing tougher visa rules and sanctions against oil tankers
The European Union is preparing new restrictive measures in response to the RF's hybrid activity on the territory of member states. The discussion of future restrictions will take place in the coming weeks. This was reported by RBC-Ukraine (Пилип Бойко) citing Bloomberg, according to the portal PromPolitInform.
Discussions on new sanction mechanisms emerged against the backdrop of increased subversive activities by Moscow in Europe. According to officials, the measures aim to restrict the freedom of movement of RF diplomatic personnel and impose a stricter visa regime for Russian citizens.
A separate set of issues concerns the operation of the so-called ‘shadow fleet’. European regulators plan to expand restrictions on oil tankers used to export energy resources while bypassing established international limits.
Combating hybrid threats
The need for new actions is driven by a series of incidents recorded in EU countries. In particular, these include attempted sabotage at infrastructure facilities in Poland and Germany, as well as uncovered plots to sabotage Italian enterprises.
Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin characterized Moscow’s actions as reckless, emphasizing the growing threat to the bloc’s security. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen expressed a similar position, calling on European countries to adapt to these challenges as the new normal.
Germany’s response
The national government of Germany has already taken preventive measures, including the closure of the Russian consulate general in Bonn. In addition to diplomatic pressure, Berlin canceled the permit for the construction of a cultural center and pledged to provide Ukraine with additional support in the form of missiles and drones to counter aggression.
