Europe prepares to ban real estate purchases by Russian citizens
In response to security concerns, European countries are considering banning real estate acquisitions by Russian nationals. Initially proposed by Finland’s Ministry of Defence, the idea now finds support from the British newspaper The Telegraph. This move aims to prevent potential threats linked to real estate ownership near sensitive locations.
European intelligence agencies warn that Russians are purchasing properties close to military bases and critical infrastructure across Europe, potentially creating a network for surveillance or sabotage. Authorities suspect Russian-linked individuals have bought homes, cottages, warehouses, and even islands near naval bases, airfields, underwater cable routes, and energy facilities. Approximately 10 million people connected to Russia live in the EU and the UK, where numerous military and critical infrastructure sites exist. For instance, Norway, hosting US weapons bases, reportedly had 240 military sites as of 2018.
These measures could mark the beginning of stricter regulations to control property ownership and enhance security against external interference. European countries are expected to continue monitoring the situation and adjust legislation as threats evolve.
