European Union Plans Full Border Closure in Coronavirus Battle
The European Union will close its borders to all non-essential travel in an attempt to contain the ongoing spread of the coronavirus. “The less travel, the more we can contain the virus,” European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said Monday following a video conference between G7 leaders. The European Council still needs to sign off on the restriction in a Tuesday vote.
Commission President von der Leyen said the EU travel restrictions would be in place “for an initial period of 30 days,” and could be extended. Family members of European nationals, essential staff, such as doctors and nurses, and people transporting goods to the EU will be exempted, she added.
Citizens of non-Schengen EU member states will also be invited to apply the travel ban. Travel with Switzerland and the UK will be preserved.
French President Emmanuel Macron declared “war” on the virus during a national address on Monday, banning all social events across the country, including family gatherings. France has over 5,400 confirmed cases and 130 deaths.
Germany also announced new restrictions on public life, closing bars, clubs, discos, and similar establishments, as well as theaters, opera houses, concert halls and museums. Germany has over 8,600 confirmed cases and 23 deaths.
Italy and Spain are the hardest hit countries in the EU, and 2nd and 3rd in the world respectively. Combined, they have a total of 44,000 cases and over 4,000 deaths.
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