Ukraine’s Zelenskyy orders end to visa-free travel for Russians: ‘Important and vital’ – National

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Wednesday ordered an finish to visa-free journey for Russian residents, citing the necessity to enhance border safety within the wake of Moscow’s invasion.

Russian residents are at present allowed to go to neighboring Ukraine with out visas. In an order posted on the presidential web site, Zelenskyy mentioned he backed a petition submitted by a citizen asking for this apply to finish.

“Towards the backdrop of full-scale Russian aggression, the difficulty raised is essential and important. I help the necessity to strengthen controls on the entry of Russian residents,” he mentioned.

Zelenskyy mentioned he had despatched a letter to Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal asking him to work on the matter. He didn’t give additional particulars.

Russian President Vladimir Putin early final month signed a decree introducing visa restrictions for residents of nations that Moscow deems “unfriendly,” together with Ukraine.

— Reporting by David Ljunggren