On Thursday 21 January, the European Parliament called on the Council of the European Union to “significantly” strengthen the EU’s restrictive measures “vis-à-vis Russia, including by sanctioning the individuals and legal entities involved in the decision to arrest and imprison Alexei Navalny”.
“The EU should impose additional targeted restrictive measures under the EU Global Human Rights Sanctions Regime against all individuals who were involved in or bear responsibility for the attacks against Alexei Navalny”, say MEPs in a joint resolution by the S&D, ECR, Greens/EFA, Renew Europe and EPP groups, which they adopted by a large majority (581 votes in favour, 50 against and 44 abstentions).
MEPs call for sanctions against Russian oligarchs linked to the regime and members of President Putin’s inner circle, as well as the media associated with the government’s propaganda.
The EU and its Member States should conduct a critical review of cooperation with Russia under various foreign policy platforms and projects such as Nord Stream 2, the completion of which must be stopped immediately by the Union, add MEPs.
Parliament also calls for a new strategy for EU-Russia relations focusing on support for civil society, which promotes democratic values, the rule of law, fundamental freedoms and human rights.
Beyond the call for the immediate and unconditional release of Mr Navalny and all others detained in connection with his return to Russia (see EUROPE 12638/14), the European Parliament demands an end to the harassment, intimidation, violence and repression of independent and dissident voices in the country.
Finally, in light of the parliamentary elections in 2021, Parliament calls for a review of the electoral framework and legislation on foreign agents and undesirable organisations to facilitate free and fair elections in accordance with international standards.
See the resolution: https://bit.ly/3p0E0W5 (Original version in French by Camille-Cerise Gessant)