German Chancellor Olaf Scholz spoke about the controversy over the need to cancel tourist visas that allow Russian tourists to travel to Europe. “This is Putin’s war,” Scholz said, noting that innocent people should not be punished.
In an interview with The Washington Post, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s call for Russian citizens to have their visas revoked “until they change their minds” continues to be debated. Scholz said those responsible for Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, which he described as “Putin’s war”, should be punished.
The effectiveness of sanctions decreases
Making evaluations on the subject, the Chancellor said, “We have taken many concrete sanctions decisions against powerful groups, oligarchs and Russian officials in Russian politics. We will certainly do more. However, if we extend these sanctions against everyone, including innocent people, the effectiveness of our decisions will decrease.” .
Support for Zelenski’s call came from Estonia and Finland. “Visiting to Europe is a privilege, not a human right,” said Estonian Prime Minister Kaju Kallas, adding: “It’s time to end tourism from Russia.”
Finnish Foreign Minister Pekka Haavisto announced that Finland will tighten visa requirements for Russian tourists and will raise the issue at the EU Foreign Ministers’ summit at the end of this month.