No exit for now for Russian refugees
The European Union presidency, led this term by the Czech Republic, has acknowledged that the situation in Russia and Ukraine could push migration pressures in new directions. While there is no unanimous plan at any given moment, the 27 member states are weighing whether to keep their doors open to those seeking asylum or international protection. On Monday, the permanent representatives of the 27 will discuss this issue at a meeting convened by the Czech presidency to try to align positions within the EU’s political crisis response mechanism (IPCR).
“Holding such a meeting quickly signals how seriously we take the events in Russia and Ukraine and our commitment to coordinating an effective response,” the EU presidency stated, though it did not reveal the specific agenda or possible outcomes. Diplomatic sources say all options may be on the table, including fresh sanctions from the European Commission, responses to Putin’s nuclear threats, and the possible arrival of more Russian refugees to the EU.
Five EU countries—the Baltic states, Poland, or the Czech Republic—have already indicated they would not open their doors to Russians fleeing mobilization. One official noted that while Russians are escaping from Russia’s increasingly risky decisions, those who leave because their own state won’t fulfill its duties may not meet humanitarian visa criteria. On Thursday, the Czech Republic’s foreign minister became the first European foreign minister to suspend tourist visa issuance for Russians following the invasion.
Finland, by contrast, continues to keep its border open, sharing a long border with Russia and multiple border crossings. Daily arrivals of Russian citizens have risen since mobilization was announced. Officials stress that applicants should be evaluated on a case-by-case basis, noting that the European asylum framework is evolving. The European Asylum Support Office is preparing special guidelines for member states to help streamline decisions in this evolving situation.
Stronger penalties under consideration
Next week the 27 will consider new sanctions against Russia, as outlined by the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen. The commission has begun conversations with member states to refine a proposal that could be presented soon. The draft includes tighter restrictions on exports of civilian technology and a broader set of measures that go beyond the list of consumer goods previously targeted.
Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, and Ireland are pushing for a stronger approach, advocating a wide ban on banking assets associated with Russian entities. They also advocate prohibiting diamond imports linked to Russia, and restricting real estate sales to Russian citizens or companies without EU residence rights. Some member states have resisted expanding the scope of sanctions to include additional areas.
Additionally, the proposal would extend the ban on entry to European ports for ships connected to Russian interests, bar European insurers from providing coverage to the Russian government, and restrict the use of cybersecurity and antivirus technologies developed outside the EU. The package may also introduce new limits on nuclear cooperation and related energy activities, signaling a sustained effort to apply economic pressure at multiple leverage points.