Prime Minister Petteri Orpo (NCP) and Minister of the Interior Mari Rantanen (PS) have shown their support for examining Hungary’s actions as president of the Council of the EU. Orpo stated the importance of the European Commission reviewing Hungary’s decision to expand its fast-track visa scheme to include Belarus and Russia, allowing entry into the Schengen Area without security controls.
Orpo emphasized the need to evaluate Hungary’s actions critically as president and work with other member states to address the situation. Finnish MEPs previously suggested measures such as stripping Hungary of its voting rights and re-evaluating its standing in the free-movement area. Rantanen also welcomed the European Commission’s review of Hungary’s visa scheme expansion.
Tytti Tuppurainen proposed the exclusion of Hungary from the Schengen Area, citing security concerns with granting free entry to Russians. While Hungary should not be driven out of the EU, measures must be taken to protect the EU. The need to plug security holes in the Schengen Area was highlighted.
Overall, Finland is taking a firm stance on Hungary’s actions and working towards ensuring the security and integrity of the EU.