Luxembourgish MEP Fernand Kartheiser is leading a campaign to recruit fellow European Parliament members for a trip to Russia. The politician sent letters to EU lawmakers inviting them to meet with State Duma members in Saint Petersburg. Kartheiser advocates for renewed dialogue with Moscow despite the ongoing full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
Politico reported that Kartheiser’s letter proposes an “in person” meeting with Russian officials on June 3.
The event is scheduled to take place during the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum. This annual gathering is frequently attended by Vladimir Putin. The letter offers assistance with accommodation and promises personalized invitations to the forum for interested participants.
Controversy and Political Consequences
Kartheiser’s initiative faces significant backlash due to existing restrictions on cooperation with Russian parliamentary bodies. Last year, the European Conservatives and Reformists group expelled Kartheiser following his previous trip to Moscow. However, the MEP defends his actions, stating the upcoming trip is privately funded, and its relevance is indisputable.
“More and more high-level European politicians call openly for a renewed dialogue with Russia on ministerial level, in Belgium, Germany, France, Italy, Luxembourg, Croatia, etc. So it is only a question of time until the EU policy will change,” Kartheiser stated.
In contrast, Lithuanian lawmaker Petras Auštrevičius described the recruitment push as an attempt to weaken the West. He warned that such contacts serve Russian interests under the guise of “political diplomacy.” The European Parliament spokesperson clarified that members engaging with Russian entities act solely in a personal capacity. Official dialogue between the Parliament and Russia has been suspended since 2014. Currently, EU officials maintain a policy of no direct contact with the Kremlin due to its aggression against Ukraine.
Previously, The Ukrainian Review reported that Russia recruits teenagers in occupied territories for war propaganda.
