EU Raises Security Concerns Over Hungary Visa Changes

The European Union has raised alarm over Hungary's recent decision to relax visa rules for Russian and Belarusian nationals, citing potential security threats and concerns about espionage. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban's decree allows citizens from these countries to apply for 'national cards' for work in Hungary without undergoing rigorous security checks, a move criticized by EU officials as creating 'grave loopholes for espionage activities'. EU Home Affairs Commissioner Ylva Johansson has demanded Budapest respond to a list of questions about the scheme by August 19, warning that the EU will take action if the rules are deemed risky. Critics argue that this decision undermines the integrity of the Schengen area and could enable more Russian spies to infiltrate the EU. Despite the backlash, Hungary's officials have defended the program, asserting that it does not compromise security controls. The situation reflects ongoing tensions between Hungary and other EU nations over Budapest's close ties to Russia amidst the ongoing war in Ukraine.