site.btaRenew Europe Probes Vazrazhdane’s Pact with United Russia

During a ceremony marking 80 years since the end of the Second World War, attended by veterans in the European Parliament in Strasbourg on Wednesday, Valerie Hayer, leader of the Renew Europe group, addressed the plenary to highlight the actions of the Bulgarian party Vazrazhdane towards closer ties with Russia.

"Last week, Bulgarian party Vazrazhdane from the Europe of Sovereign Nations group signed a cooperation agreement with United Russia, the party of Vladimir Putin," Hayer said. She added there was information that "some extremist Members of the European Parliament may accept an invitation to attend Putin’s military parade this Friday."

Hayer called these actions a clear violation of shared values and the integrity and reputation of the European Parliament.

On behalf of Renew Europe, Hayer asked European Parliament President Roberta Metsola to look into whether the three MEPs from Vazrazhdane receive any financial support or donations from United Russia in return for supporting its interests in parliamentary activities.

In her closing remarks, Hayer asked Metsola to make sure that the Parliament does not provide any financial support for any trip to Moscow on Friday.

Metsola responded that everyone should carefully consider their responsibilities and how their actions may impact European initiatives.

Given that Ukrainians are still fighting for their freedom, I urge everyone to act with caution, Metsola said.

Rada Laykova, Bulgarian MEP from Vazrazhdane, spoke to BTA about Renew Europe’s proposal to clarify whether the party receives funds from Russia.

"The most natural thing for a responsible Bulgarian political party is to foster connections between East and West, and that is exactly what Vazrazhdane is doing. In this situation, we are simply following the approach we presented in our election campaign and our official party position—to establish diplomatic relations, as our position has always been clear," Laykova said.

She said that Bulgaria should restore and normalize relations with Russia for the sake of peace. She also mentioned that recently, party delegations visited both Russia and Washington.

When asked if she expects sanctions from the European Parliament, Laykova said this is a clear example of the usual hypocrisy within the European institution.

"Vazrazhdane, in representing Bulgaria's interests, seeks to maintain diplomatic and balanced relations with all major powers. In this case, our party met with individuals who have real decision-making authority," Laykova said. She added that the party signed a standard agreement with United Russia, reflecting the strategic common interests of both parties.