**Key EU States Oppose Travel Ban for Russian Veterans**
In a significant development regarding the European Union's approach to sanctions against Russia, France and Italy have expressed their opposition to a proposed travel ban targeting Russian servicemen and veterans. This proposal is part of the EU's broader sanctions package aimed at addressing the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Diplomatic sources cited by Bloomberg indicate that both countries have raised concerns over the legal clarity and enforceability of the measure.
The proposal, which suggests barring entry to any Russians who have served in the military since February 2022, has been framed by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen as a necessary security measure. However, critics within the EU fear that the ban could extend beyond military personnel, potentially impacting over 1.3 million Russian citizens, including conscripts who have not participated in the conflict.
France and Italy have argued that the current wording of the proposal is overly broad and that such measures should be handled through visa policy rather than as part of sanctions. They have questioned the practicality of enforcing the ban, particularly regarding how national authorities would ascertain whether individual Russian applicants had military service or involvement in the conflict in Ukraine.
The implications of the proposed ban are particularly significant for France and Italy, which have seen substantial numbers of Russian arrivals in recent years. In 2025, France recorded nearly 180,000 arrivals from Russia, while Italy reported around 160,000. The high volume of Russian travelers complicates the enforcement of any travel restrictions.
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas has claimed that the European Union possesses intelligence on all Russians who have participated in the conflict and could potentially blacklist them by name. However, when pressed about the implementation of the ban, she acknowledged her lack of expertise, stating, “I am not an expert, but experts say it is possible.”
The debate over the travel ban is occurring alongside ongoing discussions within the EU regarding a new sanctions package aimed at Russia's energy, finance, trade, and shipping sectors. This package has faced internal disagreements, particularly concerning the Russian oil price cap, restrictions on LNG-linked vessels, fish imports, critical minerals, and the involvement of third-country companies in aiding Russia's acquisition of restricted goods.
As the EU navigates these complex issues, some member states have begun to question the practicality of imposing further sanctions, suggesting that they may inadvertently harm EU economies more than they do Russia. Bulgaria has recently cautioned against measures that are primarily symbolic or detrimental to the economic interests of member states. Similarly, Slovakia and Hungary have advocated for a restoration of dialogue with Moscow.
The proposed travel ban has drawn sharp criticism from Russian officials. Maria Zakharova, spokeswoman for the Russian Foreign Ministry, has characterized the measure as indicative of EU officials' desperation, labeling it “openly paranoid.” She further asserted that the EU's sanctions policy is increasingly detrimental not only to Russia but also to third countries and European citizens.
As discussions continue, the future of the proposed travel ban and the broader sanctions package remains uncertain. The differing perspectives among EU member states highlight the challenges the bloc faces in formulating a cohesive and effective response to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.