On 7 May, during a session of the European Parliament, MEP Valérie Hayer, the President of the Renew Europe Group, expressed significant concerns regarding actions taken by certain Members of the European Parliament that may compromise the integrity and values of the institution.
“We cannot remain silent while Members of this House engage in activities that align with an authoritarian regime working against the interests of the European Union,” Hayer added. “This is a matter of democratic integrity and respect for the citizens we represent.”
Hayer highlighted a recent cooperation agreement between the right-extremist Bulgarian party Revival, a member of the Europe of Sovereign Nations (ESN) Group, and Vladimir Putin’s United Russia party.
Revival is responsible for several racist attacks against minorities in Bulgaria, for its Russophilia and open anti-EU sentiments. An extremist party, on 22 February, incited protesters to attack the EU mission building during a demonstration against the country’s plans to join the eurozone. This situation is particularly alarming given that the Revival party holds three seats in the European Parliament.
Furthermore, the President of the Renew Europe Group referenced troubling reports indicating that some extremist MEPs are considering attending Putin’s military parade in Red Square, Moscow, scheduled for this Friday.
In response to these developments, Renew Europe is advocating for a comprehensive investigation to ascertain whether members of the Revival party have received any financial contributions or donations from United Russia aimed at influencing parliamentary functions.
In conclusion, Hayer has urged the President of the European Parliament to ensure that the institution covers no travel expenses related to attendance at Putin’s military parade, either directly or indirectly.
“The attendance of any MEP at autocrat Putin’s parade would disrespect Parliament’s dignity, harm its reputation, and undermine our common values,” said Valérie Hayer. “This is also a basic question of solidarity with the Ukrainians who are fighting for the freedom of Europe.”
