The European Parliament has approved a report on a new strategy for relations with Russia.
The text states that the EU should form an alliance with the United States and other like-minded partners to counter Russia and China’s efforts to weaken world democracy and destabilize the European political order.
“It should include sanctions, policies against illegal financial flows and support for human rights defenders,” reads the report.
The document emphasizes the need for support for Russia’s neighbors.
“The EU must continue to support the so-called Eastern Partnership countries, such as Ukraine and Georgia, and promote European reforms and fundamental freedoms in the region,” reads the document.
At the same time, MEPs say that the EU should be ready not to recognize the Russian parliament if the September 2021 parliamentary elections in Russia are held in violation of democratic principles and international law.
The report was presented by Lithuanian MP Andrius Kubilius.
494 Members of the European Parliament voted in favor of the document, 103 voted against and 72 abstained.
By Ana Dumbadze
