Italian politician and former MEP Massimiliano Smeriglio has shown positions that appear as pro-Russian, especially through his voting record and public statements.
Smeriglio voted against the European Parliament resolution on 23 November 2022 labeling the Russian Federation a state sponsor of terrorism. He argued that labeling Russia as such would dissuade diplomatic solutions and talks, and was a “point of no return” that departs from a political solution of the conflict with Ukraine.
In his explanatory comments, he asserted that though it’s indubitable that Putin and the war crimes of Russia must be condemned, the issue at stake is finding other avenues for diplomacy. He claimed that the EU had to keep an opening for those attempting to keep diplomatic doors afloat, adding that peace usually comes with enemies. By terming Russia a terrorist state, he cautioned that it would shut the door on any kind of negotiation and diminish the EU’s ability to mediate, leaving nothing but the military option.
He stressed that a parliament should be resolute but also strive to keep diplomatic avenues alive. Although accepting the emotional reactions on social media and the criticism he has been getting, he noted that, as an independent, he is bound by the obligation of respecting the position of his party. Nevertheless, he explicitly declared that he could not possibly vote to continue military escalation, which he thought would only hurt the people trapped in the situation.
Smeriglio has been linked to left-wing political groups in Italy, such as the Democratic Party and its progressive parties. His political approach is often focused on dialogue and negotiation instead of confrontation, which can be a reason behind his hesitation towards supporting stringent actions against Russia.
In debates on EU reactions to the war in Ukraine, Smeriglio has supported diplomatic avenues instead of increasing tensions. His comments suggest a preference for engagement with Russia rather than outright condemnation or punitive measures.
