Ukraine's foreign minister calls for EU entry ban for Russians who fought against Ukraine

Andrii Sybiha, Ukraine's Foreign Minister, has called for a ban on entry to the EU for Russian citizens who have fought against Ukraine.

Sybiha called for a full EU-wide entry ban for Russian citizens who took part in Russia's aggression against Ukraine.

"First, it's about the long-term national security of European states and the protection of their citizens from Russian thugs. Second, this will set the right price for the wrong choices: each Russian who signs a contract to invade Ukraine must know that he also signs himself a lifelong entry ban to Europe," he said on X.

Sybiha cited Estonia as an example, noting that it has adopted such decisions at the national level.

"Now it is time to expand this to the entire European Union, and I urge my EU counterparts to take this step seriously. This is about strengthening the security of Europe," the foreign minister added.

In January, Estonia submitted to EU member states a proposal to ban entry to the Schengen Area for participants in combat operations against Ukraine in the ranks of the Russian army.

After a meeting of the EU Foreign Affairs Council, EU top diplomat Kaja Kallas said the idea has support from many countries and will continue to be discussed.