EU confirms no entry ban for Putin and Lavrov despite sanctions

The European Commission has confirmed that Russian President Vladimir Putin and Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov do not face an entry ban to the European Union, despite being subject to sanctions that have been in place since 2022. This announcement was made on Friday, October 17, 2025.

EU officials stated that the exemption from the entry ban is intended to preserve diplomatic channels. They emphasized that there are currently no confirmed meetings involving Putin or Lavrov and declined to comment on hypothetical situations regarding their travel to the EU.

This development occurs amid ongoing tensions and sanctions related to Russia"s actions in Ukraine. The situation remains fluid, with various international responses continuing to evolve.

For related coverage, see recent developments regarding international political figures.