Czech Republic eases travel rules for Russian diplomats in Schengen

Czech Foreign Minister Petr Macinka has introduced more lenient rules for Russian diplomats travelling within the Schengen area, despite the previous government moving to tighten restrictions under EU sanctions against Russia.

Under the new rules, Russian diplomats accredited in other EU countries only need to notify the Czech Foreign Ministry of trips to the country, with no prior approval required, Caliber.Az reports, foreign media.

The previous administration had planned to restrict such movements to reduce intelligence-gathering under diplomatic cover.

“The EU has adopted a measure requiring staff of Russian diplomatic missions in Schengen countries to notify when entering EU states other than their country of accreditation. This measure has been in effect since January 25, 2026. It also allows EU member states to introduce additional rules, including the possibility to approve (authorise) such entries. The Czech Republic currently applies only the notification requirement. Further steps will be taken after evaluating the practice now in place. The regulation does not apply to departures from the country,” Foreign Ministry spokesperson Daniel Drake said.

Former FM Jan Lipavský warned that the unrestricted movement of Russian diplomats in the Schengen zone expands their operational freedom and poses a security risk. Czech security services also regard Russia as the country’s greatest threat, making Macinka’s decision contrary to their recommendations.

By Jeyhun Aghazada