Finnish Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen has said Russian athletes could be barred from entering Finland in 2027 if Russia does not end its war against Ukraine.
Source: Valtonen on X (Twitter) , as reported by European Pravda
Details: Valtonen said the European Commission is working on a proposal to restrict Russian athletes' access to the Schengen area.
Quote: "If Russia continues its war of aggression, Russian athletes will have nothing to do with Finland next year. I intend to push for the necessary measures in the coming days."
Background: Valtonen's statement comes against the backdrop of reports regarding Russia's return to the Ice Hockey World Championship. Specifically, the International Ice Hockey Federation confirmed that the Russian national team could take Ukraine's place at the 2027 World Championship. Valtonen previously called on the European Commission to adopt stricter rules regarding the processing of visa applications from Russian citizens and to introduce the necessary changes to EU legislation to implement a ban on issuing tourist visas. Sweden is also exploring the possibility of refusing visas to Russian and Belarusian athletes seeking to participate in international sports competitions on its territory. The Swedish government has sent a letter to the European Commission calling for stricter visa rules for Russian and Belarusian athletes competing in international sporting events in Europe.
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