The European Parliament has issued a resolution urging political leaders within the European Union (EU) and its member states to take immediate and robust measures to address instances of Russian interference.

This call comes in light of recent revelations implicating Kremlin-backed efforts to disrupt democratic processes across Europe.

The resolution, adopted on Thursday, condemns such interference and emphasizes the need for accountability measures.

Of particular concern to Parliament are credible reports suggesting that some Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) received compensation for disseminating Russian propaganda.

Also that certain individuals were involved with the pro-Russian media outlet “Voice of Europe” while Russia engaged in an unlawful war against Ukraine.

MEPs are urging leaders at both the EU and national levels to confront Russian interference not only within EU institutions but also throughout the Union.

With the upcoming European elections scheduled for June 6-9th, 2024, there is a pressing sense of urgency to address these issues effectively.

The resolution highlights instances of suspected Russian interference in various European countries, including Bulgaria, Germany, and Slovakia.

MEPs expressed concern over reports that Maximilian Krah, a prominent MEP from the Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) party, was questioned by the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) over alleged ties to Kremlin agents.

Additionally, the arrest of Krah’s parliamentary assistant in Germany on charges of espionage for China further underscores the gravity of the situation.

Parliament calls on the AfD to disclose its financial relationships, particularly with the Kremlin, and to provide transparency regarding any payments received from Kremlin-linked sources.

MEPs stress the importance of a unified and robust response to counter interference from Russia and other foreign actors.

While acknowledging Russia as the primary source of such interference and disinformation within the EU, they emphasize that other countries are also engaged in similar activities.

They assert that an effective response requires a comprehensive and collaborative approach involving both the EU and its member states.

In order to strengthen Parliament’s defenses against foreign interference, the resolution proposes measures to enhance its internal security protocols.

These include conducting thorough internal investigations to identify potential instances of interference and ensuring the full enforcement of internal sanctions.

MEPs advocate for mandatory security training for both MEPs and their staff, as well as enhanced security screening procedures.

Furthermore, the resolution calls on the Council to incorporate Kremlin-backed media outlets, as well as individuals responsible for propaganda and disinformation campaigns, into the EU’s forthcoming sanctions package targeting Russia.

MEPs seek to emulate the sanctions imposed by the Czech government against “Voice of Europe” and individuals associated with pro-Russian activities.

They also express concern over “Voice of Europe” relocating its operations to Kazakhstan and urge EU member states to prevent its accessibility within the Union.

The European Parliament’s resolution underscores the need for immediate and decisive action to address Russian interference in European democratic processes.

By calling for enhanced security measures, transparency, and coordinated sanctions, MEPs aim to safeguard the integrity of the EU’s institutions and democratic values.

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