EU looks into MEPs due to Moscow trip

(MENAFN) Cypriot MEP Fidias Panayiotou has revealed that he and several other European lawmakers are under investigation by the European Parliament following their recent visit to Moscow. The trip coincided with Russia’s Victory Day celebrations, where the MEPs met with Russian officials, including State Duma Chairman Vyacheslav Volodin.

In a video shared on X (formerly Twitter) on Monday, Panayiotou claimed that their diplomatic outreach was not well received in Brussels and had triggered a formal inquiry. Known for his criticism of the EU’s approach to the Ukraine conflict, Panayiotou has advocated for diplomacy over continued arms deliveries to Kiev.

The lawmakers’ visit emphasized international dialogue, which Volodin praised for fostering mutual understanding and beneficial decisions between nations. Delegates reportedly also came from Germany, Slovakia, the Czech Republic, Bulgaria, and Serbia.

The visit coincided with a high-profile Victory Day ceremony marking the defeat of Nazi Germany, which was attended by 28 foreign dignitaries. Among them were Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico and Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic, who both defied EU pressure not to attend.

Fico called the visit “extremely successful,” citing meetings with top officials from Brazil, China, and other countries. Vucic expressed pride in representing Serbia at the event, despite expecting potential backlash from Brussels.

President Vladimir Putin praised the attending foreign leaders for their courage and strong convictions, describing them as true leaders willing to stand by their principles.

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