MEPs condemn Russian election as “farcical performance”
- Parliament does not recognise sham presidential election in Russia
- MEPs propose limiting relations with Putin to a minimum
- Full solidarity with and active support of Russian civil society
- MEPs criticise Viktor Orbán for congratulating Putin on his sham re-election
In a resolution adopted on Thursday, Parliament denounces the illegitimate presidential election in Russia and the Russian occupied territories of Ukraine.
Following the so-called presidential election held by Russia on 15-17 March 2024, MEPs urge EU member states and the international community not to recognise the outcome as legitimate, as it was held in the illegally occupied territories of Ukraine, and within Russia, it was neither free nor fair.
This farcical performance by the Russian authorities had the single goal of creating the appearance of electoral legitimacy for Vladimir Putin, his policy of relentless domestic repression and, most of all, for the war of aggression against Ukraine, say MEPs. Parliament deplores that the Prime Minister of Hungary, Viktor Orbán, chose to deviate from the EU and congratulate Vladimir Putin on his sham re-election.
EU must actively support Russian civil society and democratic opposition
Parliament calls upon member states to limit relations with Putin to matters necessary for regional peace as well as humanitarian and human rights purposes, for example prisoner exchanges, the return of children deported from Ukraine or calling for the release of political prisoners.
It reiterates that the EU should stand in full solidarity with Russian civil society and should sanction perpetrators of human rights violations. MEPs call on the EU and member states to continue to actively support independent Russian civil society organisations, independent media outlets and human rights defenders and to actively engage with and offer support to the Russian democratic opposition.
The resolution was adopted with 493 votes in favour, 11 against and 18 abstentions.
Contacts:
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Viktor ALMQVIST
Press Officer