The European Parliament is to investigate an MEP over his contacts with Russia
Politico reports this, citing a letter from Metsola.
Roberta Metsola has written to the European Parliament’s Advisory Committee on the Code of Conduct.
She asked for an investigation into whether Fernand Kartheiser had breached parliamentary rules through his contacts with Russian officials.
In her letter, Metsola expressed concern over the MEP’s interactions with representatives of the Russian State Duma and his participation in meetings following which the parties declared their intention to “continue and deepen” their cooperation.
Why the allegations arose
According to Politico, Kartheiser held video meetings with representatives of the Russian State Duma on at least four occasions.
Since the start of Russia’s full-scale war against Ukraine, he has also visited Russia twice.
His most recent visit took place on 3 June, when the MEP took part in the St Petersburg International Economic Forum.
What may breach European Parliament rules
Metsola noted that such contacts could create the false impression of an informal channel of communication between the European Parliament and the Russian State Duma.
According to her, this could distort the European Parliament’s official position.
The European Parliament suspended official contacts with Russian legislative bodies back in 2014 following the start of Russia’s aggression against Ukraine. Following the full-scale invasion in 2022, Russian and Belarusian officials were barred from accessing the European Parliament’s institutions.
What the committee will investigate
The Advisory Committee is to assess whether Kartheiser breached the rules on declaring meetings with representatives of third countries.
It will also examine whether the MEP’s trips were properly declared if they were paid for by third-party organisations.
Depending on the outcome of the investigation, Metsola may impose sanctions, including the withdrawal of daily allowances or temporary suspension from parliamentary duties.
What Kartheiser himself says
Fernand Kartheiser has stated that he is surprised by Metsola’s position.
He described the situation as “strange and worrying” and maintains that his contacts with Russian parliamentarians were an open and transparent informal dialogue.
The MEP also stated that, in his view, there is “no alternative to dialogue” with Russia.
What happened previously
In May, Politico reported that Kartheiser had sent letters to other MEPs inviting them to join a trip to Russia to meet with State Duma deputies.
The meeting was due to take place on 3 June during the St Petersburg International Economic Forum, which is frequently attended by Vladimir Putin.
Follow us on Telegram
