18
Sep
2024
Watch
The Hungarian “National Card” scheme and its consequences for Schengen and the area of freedom, security and justice (debate)
Mr President, ladies and gentlemen, free movement of people within the EU and Schengen Area is based on trust. Trust that the Member States take care of our common security by honouring the rules and regulations that we have agreed to follow. Now, Hungary, whose leadership is doing its best to support President Putin and his war against Ukraine, is breaking this trust and is opening a door to Russian operatives to Europe. Yes, we do have an illegal immigration problem in Europe, but at least they are not trying to burn down our defence industry installations or prepare attacks on military bases or attacks against European politicians, etc.. Hungary's explanations in this matter have been delayed and vague. Therefore, we need to take necessary measures to protect ourselves, including studying the inner border controls and other measures. Appeasing dictators is wrong. Appeasing people, supporting dictators would be equally wrong. And before any of my distinguished colleagues questions my knowledge about the issue, I served almost four decades in the Finnish Defence Forces and retired as the Director of Military Intelligence. I know the threat.