In a number of EU countries, Russian diplomats have begun to have their freedom of movement restricted. The Netherlands and Austria have introduced new rules, which Russian diplomatic missions in The Hague and Vienna reported, writes The Moscow Times.
Illustrative photo. Photo: vecteezy.com
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands officially informed the Russian embassy about the changes to the procedure, calling them part of a systemic policy of pressure. Austria, in turn, sent a note, according to which Russian diplomatic and administrative staff not accredited in the country must notify in advance of entry and transit.
These measures are the implementation of the 19th package of EU sanctions against Russia, adopted in October 2025. As noted by the head of European diplomacy, Kaja Kallas, the sanctions are aimed, among other things, at restricting the movement of Russian diplomats to counteract possible attempts at destabilization in Europe.
According to the new rules, from January 25, Russian diplomats can only move freely within the country of their accreditation, and all other trips must be reported in advance. The EU explains this by the need to strengthen control over the activities of foreign government officials amid an increase in hostile intelligence activity.
Earlier, in September 2025, the Czech Republic banned the entry of unaccredited Russian diplomats and holders of service passports. According to Foreign Minister Jan Lipavský, this was due to an increase in the number of sabotage acts in the Schengen countries.
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