23 May 2024 | 12:27 PM UTC
Norway, Russia: Norwegian authorities to further restrict access at Norway-Russia land borders from May 29
Oslo to further restrict access for Russian passports at Norway-Russia land border from May 29; cross-border transport disruptions likely.
Authorities in Oslo plan to further restrict access to Russian passport holders at the Norway-Russia border from May 29; Russian citizens traveling due to tourism and other non-essential travel will be denied access to Norway. Restrictions are reportedly applied to visas issued by Norway before the 2022 restrictions, and visas issued by other Schengen countries. Exceptions will be applied to Russian citizens who work or study in Norway, or visiting family members residing in Norway or other Schengen countries. It remains unclear when the new restrictions will be lifted.
The restrictions will likely further complicate freight and passenger transport between the two countries.
Consider alternative options if planning to travel or ship goods between Norway and Russia for the duration of the border closure. Heed instructions from authorities.
Norway's decision to further restrict access to Russian citizens at the Norway-Russia border is a reaction to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Oslo's support for Ukraine has been ongoing since February 2022 and will likely continue through the end of the hostilities.
Moreover, the decision follows recent warnings issued by Western intelligence agencies on a possible increase in sabotage actions aimed at Ukraine-aligned countries. Norway's diplomatic, economic, and military support to Ukraine makes the Scandinavian country a likely objective for possible Moscow-directed sabotage and covert operations.
