The European Union will have to develop a common position on the entry requests of Russians who are leaving the country because of the war in Ukraine, the bloc’s executive director said on Thursday, Reuters reported. However, the European Commission has said that member states will have to consider applications on a case-by-case basis, taking into account fundamental rights and asylum law.
Commission spokesman Peter Stano said many Russians had tried to leave the country since President Vladimir Putin announced a partial mobilization on Wednesday, and said half a million had left since the invasion of Ukraine in February.
“Protest actions were held in several Russian cities,” he said at the briefing. “This shows that Russians are voting with their feet.”
“We, the European Union, are in principle in solidarity with the citizens of Russia who have the courage to show their opposition to what the regime is doing, especially when it comes to this illegal war in Ukraine,” he added.
Another spokesman said that when it comes to applications for entry at EU borders, it “must be done in accordance with EU law”, which includes respect for fundamental rights and all applicable legislation on asylum procedures.
“Given this unprecedented situation, member states will consider them on a case-by-case basis,” the spokesman added.
A third spokesman said: “We have to have a common position at EU level” on the applications, given that there could be a large number of applications for entry from Russia.
Small-scale protests erupted in 39 cities across Russia, with authorities arresting more than 1,000 people by Wednesday evening, who were assaulted and brutalized by law enforcement even during peaceful protests.
Some of the men detained by law enforcement officers were ordered to join the army at police stations.
Read also:
-
The most expensive flight ticket Moscow-Dubai, after Putin announced the mobilization of reservists
- IMAGE OF THE DAY International flights from Russia after Putin announces partial mobilization of reservists
- VIDEO The first footage of forced mobilization in Russia: men in Siberia tearfully say goodbye to their wives and children
Source: Hot News RU
James Springer is a renowned author and opinion writer, known for his bold and thought-provoking articles on a wide range of topics. He currently works as a writer at 247 news reel, where he uses his unique voice and sharp wit to offer fresh perspectives on current events. His articles are widely read and shared and has earned him a reputation as a talented and insightful writer.