In response to mounting allegations of Russian interference in the upcoming European election, liberal and green members of the European Parliament (MEPs) are demanding an investigation into the matter. The claims suggest that Moscow paid MEPs to influence the election in their favor.

The Czech government recently sanctioned the news site Voice of Europe, labeling it as part of a pro-Russian influence operation. Adding more weight to the allegations, Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo openly stated that Russia had approached MEPs and "paid [them] to promote Russian propaganda."

Valérie Hayer, the president of the liberal Renew group and the top candidate for the European Union election nominated by French President Emmanuel Macron, has called for an urgent debate in Parliament. In a letter to Parliament President Roberta Metsola, Hayer emphasized the need to expose any sitting MEPs or candidates who have received money or been corrupted by the Russian government or its proxies. Hayer proposed that this debate should take place during the next plenary session scheduled for April 10 in Brussels.

Joining the call for investigation, Dutch Green EU lawmaker Bas Eickhout emphasized the importance of ensuring that candidates standing for the European election are not being paid by Russians. He stated that with just 10 weeks remaining until the elections, it is crucial to guarantee the integrity of the candidates.

Surprisingly, the Parliament's two largest political groups, the European People's Party and the Socialists and Democrats, have remained relatively silent on the allegations. A spokesperson for President Metsola, who belongs to the European People's Party, stated that she is aware of the allegations and is currently looking into the specific claims.

The demand for an investigation into these allegations reflects the growing concern over foreign interference in European elections. The European Parliament plays a crucial role in shaping European policies, and it is essential to uphold the integrity and transparency of the electoral process.

As the European election draws closer, the call for a thorough investigation into alleged Russian interference gains momentum among liberal and green MEPs. The debate scheduled for April 10 will provide an opportunity to shed light on these serious allegations and ensure a fair and democratic electoral process for all European citizens.