EU Considers Tougher Restrictions On Russian Diplomats Amid Hybrid Threats

European Union nations are contemplating stricter regulations and enhanced scrutiny on Russian diplomats in response to a surge of hybrid threats across the continent, with some incidents directly attributed to Moscow, according to UATV English reports citing diplomatic sources. The proposed measures could encompass rigorous controls over Russian diplomats' movements between EU states, potentially becoming a component of the bloc's forthcoming sanctions policy.

Presently, European countries are mandated to notify authorities ahead of Russian diplomats' travel or transit through their borders, although this does not inherently grant authorities the power to impede such travel. Currently, just two EU member states employ this requirement, with only two EU member states utilizing this mechanism.

The deliberations stem from a series of events Europe has linked to Russia, including a suspected arson at an Estonian defense facility and an unexploded drone found at Leipzig Airport. In September, Hungary expelled ten Russian diplomats over what it deemed "unacceptable" actions, prompting Moscow's retaliatory expulsion of Hungarian officials.

The EU is assessing whether Russian diplomats may be implicated in hybrid attacks, a notion initially raised over worries that diplomats might disseminate Russian propaganda and sway public opinion. Nevertheless, Brussels must also consider the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, which grants diplomats extensive rights and protections.

"Russia's actions will not go unanswered," a draft of the conclusions for the EU leaders' summit states, underscoring the bloc's commitment to act in unison with member states and utilize all available tools. The EU is also exploring additional restrictions targeting Russian citizens, such as a potential visa ban for former Russian military personnel and stricter regulations for Russian tourists.