Kyiv, Jun 17 (AP) Ukraine plans to introduce a visa regime for Russian citizens, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Friday.

The move is likely to be viewed as symbolic given that the borders between the neighbouring countries are officially closed while they are at war in Ukraine. It nevertheless represents a significant change to the ease of travel previously permitted.

Also Read | Ancient Genome of E Coli Reconstructed Using Gallstone of A 16th Century Italian Mummy.

In a Telegram post, Zelenskyy said that Russians will need a visa to enter Ukraine from July 1. He said the decision, which is due to be formalised through a Cabinet resolution, was motivated by “unprecedented threats to the national security, sovereignty and territorial integrity” of Ukraine.

Before Moscow invaded Ukraine on Feb 24, Russians didn't need visas to enter the country. Many Russians have relatives across the border, while others travelled regularly to visit Ukraine's southern beaches and urban cultural hubs.

Also Read | Julian Assange: UK Govt Approves Extradition of WikiLeaks Founder to US, Appeal Possible.

The war in Ukraine Russia's war on its southern neighbour was in its 17th week on Friday. (AP)

(The above story is verified and authored by Press Trust of India (PTI) staff. PTI, India’s premier news agency, employs more than 400 journalists and 500 stringers to cover almost every district and small town in India.. The views appearing in the above post do not reflect the opinions of LatestLY)