"You can't constantly contradict the common EU line": Finland and Germany criticize Orban for new flirtations with Russia

The governments of Germany and Finland have criticized Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, who, after meeting with dictator Putin, decided to let Russians into the country without further verification. They called on the European Commission to consider a so-called visa exemption for residents of the aggressor country.

For example, Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo said that Hungary's activities should be "taken very seriously." His words were quoted by yle on Sunday, August 4.

The politician believes that the EC should consider the visa exemption granted by Hungary to Russians and take appropriate measures. In addition, he said that Budapest's actions as the EU presidency should also be critically evaluated.

"Hungary's presidency should also be assessed very critically. It is impossible to constantly contradict the EU's common line. We need to take a tough stance on this," Orpo emphasized.

He added that Finland is acting in cooperation with other EU countries on this issue.

For his part, Michael Stuebgen, Minister of the Interior of the German state of Brandenburg, called for increased border control on all EU borders with Hungary, T-online.

According to him, European treaties allow for border control in exceptional situations.

"Just as we do with Poland and the Czech Republic, countries like Austria, Croatia, Slovakia and Romania should do the same. It is unacceptable for an EU country to allow Russians to enter the country virtually unchecked," the minister said.

German Interior Minister Nancy Feser, for her part, noted that the risk of Russian espionage and sabotage is high and has become even more acute since the beginning of Russia's war against Ukraine, so the EU countries should strengthen protection, and not create "potential gateways" for spies and saboteurs.

As reported by OBOZ.UA:

- Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban decided to allow Russians to enter the country without additional checks after his meeting with Putin. Thus, thousands of Russians, including spies and saboteurs, may enter the EU through Hungary.

- The European Commission has demanded that Hungary explain how the country plans to simplify entry for citizens of Belarus and Russia and how it complies with the requirements of the Schengen area. It reminded that Russia is an absolute threat to the entire European Union.

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