“Carthage Must Be Destroyed”: European Officials Push to Restrict Russian Diplomats’ Movement in Schengen Zone

European officials are weighing new measures to curb Russia’s ability to operate across the EU, including a potential ban on unrestricted travel for Russian diplomats within the Schengen zone.

This was reported by Politico on August 26.

Supporters of the proposal argue that the current system makes it difficult to monitor intelligence officers who may use diplomatic cover to plan hostile activities far from the country that issued their visa.

“Just like Cato the Elder kept repeating that Carthage must be destroyed, I will keep proposing to end the free movement of Russian diplomats in Schengen,” Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavský told Politico.

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He added that it was an unnecessary advantage granted to the Russian regime, which was being abused to facilitate sabotage operations.

The idea will be part of broader talks among EU foreign ministers at an informal summit later this week. The agenda includes a discussion with EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas on strengthening economic sanctions and other restrictive measures against Moscow as the bloc seeks to increase pressure on Russia.

Earlier, it was reported that the Netherlands and seven other EU member states are pushing for new restrictions on Russian diplomats, proposing that their movement be confined to the country of accreditation instead of enjoying unrestricted access across the Schengen zone.