European Parliament President Roberta Metsola addressed the meeting of world leaders in regards to the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Metsola explained how Europe cannot remain reliant on Kremlin gas.
‘We need to re-double our efforts to diversify our energy systems towards a Europe that is no longer at the behest of autocrats. This will put our energy security on stronger footing’ she said. This measure must be accompanied by the rejection of Kremlin cash and pretending there are no strings attached. Metsola said that Putin’s oligarchs and those who bankroll him should no longer be able to use their purchasing power to hide ‘behind a veneer of respectability’.
This applies to cities, communities and even sports clubs. ‘And we can no longer sell passports to Putin’s friends allowing them to circumvent our security. No more’ she said. This does pose somewhat of a problem for the Maltese government which has not yet accepted to impose a suspension or ban on the sale of citizenship to Russian nationals. Metsola went on to state that the EU must fight the Kremlin’s disinformation campaign.
She went on to call on social media and tech conglomerates to take responsibility and understand there is no being neutral ‘between the fire and the fire brigade.’ She said Europe will stand up and will not look away from those fighting in the streets.’ Metsola thanked Ukrainian President Vlodymyr Zelenskyy for ‘showing the world what it means to stand up. Thank you for reminding us about the dangers of complacency.’ She highlighted the everyday acts of extraordinary heroism by Ukrainians as inspiring.
‘This must be our Whatever It Takes moment’ she said. ‘We recognise Ukraine’s European perspective. As our Resolution clearly states we welcome, Mr President, Ukraine’s application for candidate status and, we will work towards that goal. We will and we must face the future together.’
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Photo Source: Roberta Metsola FB
