Moscow Times - 03.04.2003

The Moscow Times

U.S. Accused of "Consular War" on Russians

By Michael Tarm 

MOSCOW -  (Interfax) Every fourth Russian wishing to visit the United States is denied an entry visa, Igor Suzdaltsev, a senior member of the Russian-American Public Visa Council, complained on Tuesday. 

"Russians are denied entry to the U.S. in 25% of cases, whereas the figure for entry to European Union countries is only at about 3%," Igor Suzdaltsev told a news conference in Moscow, citing information from the U.S. consul in Russia, Jim Warlick. 

"This policy of consular war is, in particular, dealing a blow to Russian scientists, who, having worked in the U.S. for several years and having afterward being deprived of their visas, cannot bring their property, manuscripts or libraries to Russia." 

The head of the Moscow Helsinki Group said the U.S. visa policy toward Russians runs against international human rights accords. 

"Such violations weaken the position of the U.S. in its dialogue with the Russian authorities on the defense of U.S. citizens' rights. This means that both sides close their eyes to violations of the right to freedom of movement for citizens of the two countries," Lyudmila Alexeyeva said.