In a resolution (433 votes in favor, 56 against, and 18 abstentions), the European Parliament expresses its outrage and serious concern over the ongoing Russian efforts to undermine European democracy. Earlier this month, it was reported that Latvian MEP Tatjana Ždanoka allegedly acted as an informant for the Russian security service FSB.
At the same time, the resolution also points to other cases of Members of the European Parliament who knowingly serve Russia’s interests, including by sending false election observation missions to Russian-occupied territories.
The European Parliament is also concerned about alleged relations between Moscow and Catalan separatists. The Parliament wants this matter to be referred for further investigation to the Advisory Committee on the Conduct of Members of the European Parliament.
The European Parliament must also introduce stricter rules for its own use to prevent Russian interference in the Parliament. Events organized in the Parliament buildings, invited external guests, and the use of the Parliament’s TV and radio studios and other facilities must be examined more thoroughly for misuse by Moscow,
“It is alarming that foreign agents can spread Russian propaganda unhindered within EU institutions. The presence of foreign agents in the European Parliament and other institutions poses significant risks to our security and credibility,” said MEP Sandra Kalniete (EPP), one of the initiators of the debate in the European Parliament.