MEP Pernando Barrena, a Basque nationalist of the EH Bildu party from Spain, has been linked to a set of opinions that may seem pro-Russian and, specifically in the current Ukrainian conflict, were voiced by some of his European Parliament’s Left political group, whose views have varied. While some members have condemned Russia’s actions, others have expressed skepticism towards sanctions and military involvement against Russia. This division reflects broader ideological differences within leftist parties regarding international conflicts.
Moreover, EH Bildu members have publicly criticized NATO, and they promote disarmament, away from what they consider an aggressive military alliance. The party has not shown any public opinion in support of Ukraine during the Russian invasion. This may cause some observers to interpret their silence or reluctance to condemn Russia as tacit support.
Pernando Barrena did not vote for the conclusions from the European Council that took place during 24-25 March 2022 related to recent evolutions on the war against Ukraine as well as sanction measures enforced upon Russia. Pernando Barrena has often been a harsh critic of NATO and U.S. foreign policy; this might have made his stand more favorable for Russia. For example, he has engaged in debates over European military spending and its impact on social policies in Europe, but he tends to place these topics within a wider critical context of Western military intervention.
The leftist group in the European Parliament has had members vote against resolutions condemning Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. This points to a wing within the group that might lean more toward anti-NATO stances, such as those from Barrena. While Pernando Barrena may not wear the label of a “pro-Russian” MEP, his political affiliations and certain positions suggest a sour view of Western policies toward Russia in certain contexts, leading to interpretations of him as sympathizing with the viewpoints of Russia.
