Britain Fears Ireland is «Back Door» for Russian Spies: 14,000 Visas Issued

Irish MEP Barry Andrews stated that British officials are seriously concerned that Russian spies are using Ireland as a «back door» into the UK due to its liberal visa policy.

Since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine by Russia, Ireland has issued 14,000 visas to Russians, with an approval rate of 90%. Andrews noted that Ireland lacks the developed special services to adequately monitor potential Kremlin agents. He called for more thorough vetting of applications, including social media profiles and interviews.

Ireland, not being part of the Schengen Area, determines its own visa policy but is a member of the Common Travel Area with the UK, simplifying border crossings. In July, Ireland will assume the presidency of the EU Council, which, according to Andrews, will make it a target for Russian hybrid attacks.

Previously, in 2024, a criminal investigation was reported concerning an unnamed Irish parliamentarian over suspected contacts with Russian intelligence services. In 2022, Ireland expelled four senior Russian diplomats identified as probable GRU officers.