# Ukrainian Minister Calls for European Travel Ban on Russian Citizens Mariana Betsa argues restricting Russian entry is essential for maintaining European societal security. - **Source:** [The Irish Times – Politics](https://www.irishtimes.com/politics) - **Published:** 2026-11-09 - **Topic:** [politics](https://brifing.si/c/politics) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/80cff7d3-9428-48b9-ba46-c2abbb35ed97 ## Proposed European Travel Ban Ukrainian Deputy Foreign Minister Mariana Betsa has formally advocated for a total ban on Russian citizens entering European nations. Speaking in Dublin, she argued that such measures are necessary to prevent potential infiltration and the destabilization of societies from within. She emphasized that national security must remain the top priority for all European countries. ## Targeting Financial and Energy Sectors Beyond travel restrictions, Betsa urged the European Union to accelerate the implementation of existing sanctions. She specifically proposed that future packages target Russia’s shadow fleet, nuclear energy sector, and banking institutions. These measures aim to deplete the financial resources currently funding Russia's ongoing military operations and limit their capacity to sustain the war. ## Isolation in Sports and Culture The minister further suggested that Russia should face complete exclusion from international sports and cultural activities. She characterized these bans as a necessary component of the price Russia must pay for its actions. This strategy seeks to increase global pressure by limiting Russia's soft power and presence on the international stage across all sectors. ## Refugee Statistics and Voluntary Return Since February 2022, over 122,000 Ukrainians have arrived in Ireland, with approximately 85,000 currently under temporary protection as of March 2026. While Ukraine values this refuge, the government hopes for their eventual return. Betsa stressed that any repatriation must be strictly voluntary, ensuring safety and security remain the primary conditions for those displaced. ## Risks of Long-term Assimilation Betsa expressed concern regarding the prolonged nature of the conflict, noting that extended stays abroad lead to the active integration and assimilation of Ukrainian refugees. For Ukraine, maintaining the national identity and connection of its citizens is vital. She highlighted that the longer the war continues, the harder it becomes to preserve these essential cultural bonds. ## Shifting Tactics and Civilian Impact The situation on the ground remains critical as Russia has shifted its military tactics to target civilian populations and essential infrastructure. Betsa described these efforts as a clear attempt to make conditions unlivable and force a surrender. Despite these pressures, she asserted that Ukraine remains resilient and will not concede to such aggressive military strategies. ## Ceasefire and Just Peace Ukraine stands ready for a ceasefire, provided it leads to a just peace rather than peace at any price. Betsa warned against allowing the war to become a new normalcy for the international community. She emphasized that the daily loss of civilian and children's lives is an unacceptable reality that requires urgent global attention. ## Interlinked Global Security Threats Betsa identified a dangerous axis between Russia, Iran, and North Korea, noting that these nations support each other's military objectives. She argued that weakening Russia would directly impact Iran's capabilities, illustrating that security threats are globally entwined. Consequently, she urged partners to recognize that addressing the Russian threat is essential for broader international stability. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2026/11/09/russians-should-be-banned-from-entering-european-countries-ukrainian-minister-says/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._