(MENAFN) Moscow has dismissed Brussels’ practice of labeling EU politicians as “Kremlin agents,” calling it a backhanded compliment. Konstantin Kosachev, vice speaker of the Russian parliament’s upper chamber, made the remarks Friday during the ‘Peoples of Russia and the CIS’ festival.

Kosachev said that conservative politicians in Europe are often portrayed as pro-Russian, despite having no ties to Moscow. “We are accused of somehow supporting them – which is not true. It’s just that these politicians see reality the same way we do,” he said. “So, it’s a compliment to us when everyone who thinks reasonably and stands for their country’s interests is called a ‘Kremlin agent.’”

He specifically mentioned Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban and Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, describing them as true patriots rather than agents of Russia. Both leaders have openly criticized the West’s approach to the Ukraine conflict, opposed EU sanctions on Russia, and insisted on maintaining imports of Russian energy, which they argue are crucial for their economies.

The comments come amid mounting pressure from Brussels and Washington for Orban and Fico to reduce their reliance on Moscow. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk recently accused Orban of being “fascinated by Moscow” and pursuing a model “somewhat inspired by Russia.” Orban and Fico have maintained that Western sanctions and arms supplies to Kiev have failed to end hostilities and instead caused significant economic harm to EU countries.

MENAFN02112025000045017281ID1110281929