Russia closely monitored the results of the European Union election, where French President Emmanuel Macron’s party suffered a significant defeat. This result, combined with the growing popularity of far-right parties across Europe, provoked a reaction from Russia.
Macron’s recent call for the deployment of Western troops in Ukraine, despite Moscow’s calls not to contribute to the escalation of the conflict, did not go unnoticed. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov commented on the EU vote, saying, “Despite the fact that, so far, pro-European parties retain their leading position, with time right-wing parties will be snapping at their heels.”
Vyacheslav Volodin, the head of Russia’s State Duma, took the opportunity to criticize both Macron and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz. Volodin wrote on Telegram, “Macron and Scholz are clinging on to power with their last remaining strength,” suggesting that they should resign to stop “making a mockery of their citizens.” He attributed the election results in France and Germany to economic stagnation, a migration crisis, and their involvement in the war in Ukraine.
Russian analyst Sergei Markov linked the results of the French elections to the Russian-Ukrainian conflict, in which France is actively involved. Markov noted that Macron’s defeat was the result of his position on the war against Russia in Ukraine, hinting that Macron could further increase tensions by involving NATO.
Russia’s state news agency TASS concluded that European citizens had “spoken out against the course taken by Brussels,” but predicted that the European Commission, under Ursula von der Leyen, would continue with “unpopular measures” such as EU accession talks with Ukraine and new sanctions on Russia.
The media platform RT highlighted the surge of parties opposing Russia sanctions in the EU elections. It noted that Macron’s political rival Marine Le Pen is against Ukraine using Western weapons for strikes on Russian soil and has opposed sanctions. The far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) has also repeatedly objected to Western sanctions on Russia and military aid to Ukraine.
In the Russian blogosphere, there was discussion about a “weakening of the anti-Russian bloc” in the EU. Prominent military blogger Rybar warned that far-right parties in Europe might face increased repression and pressure, with some being accused of sympathizing with Russia or prosecuted.
The Russia in Global Affairs think tank, which advises the Kremlin on foreign policy, took a more moderate tone, stating that while there hadn’t been a revolution, Macron’s focus on the Ukrainian issue and military intervention had failed to resonate with voters.
Rodion Miroshnik suggested on Rossia-24 television that Macron should face criminal charges for his actions in Ukraine, though he admitted that the International Court of Justice was unlikely to cooperate with such an initiative.
