OREANDA-NEWS  The European Commission (EC) announced on Friday that it is tightening visa rules for Russian citizens "due to increased security risks" and "potential abuse of visas" and canceling multiple-entry visas for Russians.

"By strengthening visa regulations, we are taking an additional and necessary step to ensure the security of the European Union and its citizens," said Henna Virkkunen, Executive Vice President of the European Commission.

"We are now facing unprecedented violations by drones and sabotage on our territory. We must protect our citizens. Stricter rules will now apply to Russian citizens applying for a visa to travel to the EU," said Kaya Kallas, head of EU Diplomacy.

From now on, Russian citizens will no longer be able to obtain multiple-entry visas, the EC communique explains. "This means that Russian citizens will have to apply for a new visa every time they plan to travel to the EU, which will allow for thorough and regular screening of applicants to reduce any potential security risk," the document says.