Sri Lanka's Visa Dilemma: Russians and Ukrainians Asked to Leave Amidst Controversy

In an unexpected turn of events, Sri Lanka has asked thousands of Russian and Ukrainian tourists to leave the country within two weeks from February 23, as their visas have reportedly lapsed. The Immigration Controller issued a notice to the Tourism Ministry, prompting a swift response from President Ranil Wickremesinghe's office, which has ordered an investigation into the decision.

Despite the notice to leave, the President's Media Division clarified that there hasn't been an official government decision to revoke the previously granted visa extensions. This discrepancy raises questions about the process and authority behind such a significant decision, especially without a cabinet decision to revoke the extensions.

The backstory to this situation lies in the war between Russia and Ukraine, which prompted Sri Lanka to grant extended stays to nearly 300,000 Russians and 20,000 Ukrainians since the conflict's outbreak in 2022. However, the current number of tourists on extended visas remains undisclosed.

The initial decision to allow longer stays was driven by flight shortages amid the ongoing global turmoil. While this move aimed to provide temporary refuge, recent developments indicate a shift in the government's stance.

Authorities have cited instances of alleged abuse of tourist visas by Russian and Ukrainian nationals, including running illegal businesses, employing foreigners, and utilizing payment methods that circumvent local systems. These claims have added a layer of complexity to the situation, prompting immigration authorities to reconsider the extended stays.

President Wickremesinghe's intervention underscores the need for a thorough investigation into the decision-making process. The controversy surrounding the sudden request to leave raises concerns about the potential impact on tourism, diplomatic relations, and the affected individuals.

As Sri Lanka grapples with these developments, the fate of thousands of tourists remains uncertain. The international community watches closely as the government addresses the complexities of visa extensions, potential abuses, and the delicate balance between national interests and humanitarian considerations.

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