BUDAPEST, Hungry: Hungary’s recent decision to relax entry rules for Russian and Belarusian “guest workers” has sparked significant concerns within the European Union.
These changes allow workers from these nations to stay in Hungary for two years, with the option to extend for another three years.
EU Home Affairs Commissioner Ylva Johansson had given Hungary until August 19 to explain the policy shift, but as of Monday, no response was received from Budapest.
Johansson warned that these relaxed rules could undermine EU security by potentially allowing Russian spies and saboteurs easier access to the Schengen Area.
While Hungary insists that Russian and Belarusian citizens still undergo thorough checks, the move has raised alarms among several EU countries, especially the Baltic and Nordic nations.
These countries fear the policy could lead to permanent residency for Russians and Belarusians in Hungary, further threatening the bloc’s security amid tensions with Russia and Belarus.
Hungary’s Foreign Minister Peter Szijjártó dismissed the concerns as “plain lies,” accusing critics of being influenced by pro-war sentiments.
The issue is expected to be a focal point at the upcoming EU foreign and defence ministers meeting in Brussels, as Hungary’s actions continue to strain its relations with other EU member states.
