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Zelensky says he has enough powers to introduce visas for Russians

The online petition was registered on the website of the Ukrainian president on February 11

KIEV, June 6. /TASS/. Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky has said he has enough powers to introduce visas for Russian citizens.

"I think what you are talking about [the introduction of visas for Russian citizens] is a good idea. And I think that I have enough powers to bring it to a positive result for Ukrainians," RBC-Ukraine quoted him as telling reporters on Monday.

On May 25, Zelensky supported a petition calling for visas for Russian citizens and instructed Prime Minister Denis Shmygal to consider this issue. According to him, in the current conditions, the proposal made by citizens "is important and urgent."

The online petition "Create a visa regime for citizens of the Russian Federation" was registered on the website of the Ukrainian president on February 11. It was supported by 26,742 citizens, topping the 25,000 votes required for it to merit consideration.

Ukraine has been raising the specter of visas with Russia since 2014. The idea was first suggested by the leader of the Radical Party, Oleg Lyashko. In 2017, the issue was even planned to be considered by the national legislature. The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry said at the time that Kiev could be at a disadvantage if the decision passed.