Restrictions on the freedom of movement of Russian diplomats in the EU have entered into force

(Patria) - Measures restricting the freedom of movement of Russian diplomats in the European Union came into force on Sunday to prevent espionage and the spread of disinformation.

When traveling through the Schengen area outside their host country, Russian diplomats and consular officials, as well as their staff and family members, will now have to notify the destination country and all transit countries at least 24 hours before travel.

Member states may also introduce a procedure for applying for entry or transit authorization so that they can prohibit their movement in case of suspicion. Travel within the host country does not need to be registered.

The measure was formally adopted in October as part of a package of sanctions against Russia and published in the Official Journal of the European Union.

The EU announced that the measures are being implemented because some of the covered individuals are involved in intelligence operations for Moscow, including espionage and spreading disinformation about the war to distort public opinion.

According to EU officials, violating the measures could be punished by revoking diplomatic status.

Until now, Russian diplomats have largely been able to travel freely throughout the EU.

Eastern EU countries have criticized this privilege for years, but other member states feared that travel restrictions could provoke countermeasures for European diplomats in Russia.