European parliamentarians are urging the European Union and European countries to actively support Russia’s democratic opposition. In a resolution passed in Strasbourg, members of the European Parliament expressed solidarity with those in Russia who are fighting for a democratic future. The resolution, which was adopted by a large majority, criticized the authoritarian regime in Russia and called for the release of all political prisoners.
The lawmakers also condemned the murder of Alexey Navalny and demanded an independent investigation into his death. They held the Russian government and President Vladimir Putin responsible for Navalny’s killing.
The resolution comes ahead of Russia’s 2024 presidential election, with early voting already underway in parts of Ukraine that are illegally occupied by Russia. EU foreign affairs spokesman Peter Stano called this a clear violation of international law and reiterated the EU’s stance on the territorial integrity of Ukraine.
In response, the Permanent Mission of Russia to the EU criticized the EU’s interference in Russian electoral affairs and reiterated Russia’s position on the status of Crimea and other disputed regions.
Overall, the European parliamentarians are calling for greater support for Russia’s democratic opposition and for accountability in cases of human rights violations and political repression in the country.