Democracy Digest: Czechia Restricts Rules for Russian Diplomats Travelling

The Czech Republic amended the rules for Russian diplomats travelling in and out of the country as of this week. According to the new regulations, Russian diplomatic personnel must now notify the Czech authorities of their plans to cross the border at least one day in advance, announce the purpose of their trip, as well as the precise route, duration and places of their stay. Foreign Minister Petr Macinka had hinted at the change in the past and Czechia has long lobbied at the EU level to restrict the ability for Russian diplomats to travel freely within the borderless Schengen Area, highlighting the fact that many Russian intelligence personnel have been operating under diplomatic cover. “I consider it an abso