German Chancellor Scholz opposes imposing a tourist visa ban on all Russians
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz opposed the ban on issuing tourist visas to all Russian citizens to European Union (EU) countries due to Russia's war against Ukraine.
At a press conference in Berlin, Scholz evaluated the demand of European countries of Estonia and Finland to impose a tourist visa ban on Russians.
'This is (Russian President Vladimir) Putin's war. That's why I'm having a hard time with this idea', Scholz reminded that the EU has implemented extensive sanctions against those who support the power network in Moscow.
Scholz warned that imposing this (visa ban) against all Russians and innocents could lessen the impact of the sanctions.
Underlining that they will continue to support Ukraine against Russia, Scholz said that they have taken comprehensive decisions for Ukraine's struggle for independence and that they will continue to do so in the future.
Asked whether the German government is working to hold Putin accountable for war crimes in Ukraine, Scholz said he believes every precaution should be taken to shed light on all war crimes.
PRICE INCREASE
Stating that they will continue to take measures to reduce the financial burden of the people due to price increases in the country, Scholz said, 'We will do everything for the people to pass through this difficult period.' said.
Stressing that the government will put forward a new financial package and that no one will shoulder these financial difficulties alone, Scholz said, 'We will not leave anyone alone.' he said.
Stating that he supports the construction of a gas pipeline from Portugal and Spain to Central Europe via France in order to provide new energy sources, Scholz said that such a line should be built until now, and the lack of it is now felt.
Pointing out that this line could ease the current situation, Scholz noted that he met with the leaders of Spain, Portugal, France and the President of the European Union Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, to initiate such a project.