Expulsion proceedings for EKR MPs after controversial trip to Moscow!

Expulsion proceedings for EKR MPs after controversial trip to Moscow!

Fernand Kartheiser, who has only been a member of the European Parliament since 2024, is at the center of a potential expulsion process from the European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR) group. The reason for this measure is his controversial activities during a trip to Russia, which he undertook at the invitation of Russian authorities. This was confirmed by ECR group leaders Nicola Procaccini and Patryk Jaki, who emphasized that Kartheiser had “crossed a clear line” and that the ECR group stood behind Ukraine’s security, territorial integrity and sovereignty. [Lessentiel] reports that Kartheiser wants to hold talks in Moscow about the war in Ukraine, relations with Russia and human rights.

While arriving in Moscow, Kartheiser released a video in front of the Kremlin announcing his plans for the following Monday and Tuesday. In these days he wants to meet with representatives of the Russian government and both chambers of parliament. This approach is causing considerable controversy, not least because of the political sensitivity associated with the current conflict in Ukraine.

Background to the EKR parliamentary group

Since his election, Kartheiser has been a member of the EKR parliamentary group, which covers a diverse spectrum due to its political orientation. The group includes parties such as the Italian ruling party Fratelli d'Italia, the Spanish right-wing extremist party Vox and Eric Zemmour's Reconquête party. His integration into the parliamentary group was automatic, as the ADR (Alternative Democratic Reform Party), to which he belongs, is a member of the EKR, as [Wort] reports.

The discussions surrounding a possible exclusion of Kartheiser illustrate the tensions and differences within the group, particularly with regard to the relationship with Russia and support for Ukraine. EKR is currently led by Giorgia Meloni, who acts as one of the most influential voices in the European political landscape. Her position on Ukraine's defense could further influence the decision on Kartheiser.

In this political context it is also clear that Kartheiser is pursuing a so-called “policy of dialogue” with the aim of solving various problems. How his trip to Russia will affect his political career remains to be seen, however, as the ECR group is now officially considering an exclusion process.