Overview

• EUobserver, citing unnamed EU diplomats, reports the European Commission is preparing a tourism-focused strategy by the end of 2025.
• The expected document is described as softer and non-binding rather than a formal EU sanctions package.
• Russian tourists are still traveling to EU countries, with industry estimates pointing to a 15–20% rise in trips this summer.
• An ATOR executive says clarity on any visa policy shifts could emerge within two to three months, noting visa curbs were not included in the EU’s 19th sanctions package.
• Any Brussels recommendation to tighten visas would be optional for member states, with some countries able to issue national visas and others signaling resistance to stricter measures.