Syria: Putin is also responsible for Aleppo killings

“Not only is Bashar al-Assad a mass murderer of his own people, responsible for the deaths of millions of civilians; Russian President Putin is his ally”, said Manfred Weber MEP, Chairman of the EPP Group in the European Parliament (EP). Mr Weber addressed the devastating human tragedy we are witnessing in Syria during the EP debate on the preparations for the European Council of 20-21 October. “For us, it is clear: Vladimir Putin cannot be a partner. For example, I can’t see Nord Stream 2 going ahead as long as Putin is shelling civilians.” Manfred Weber also strongly criticised right-wing populists and especially Marine Le Pen for their support for Russia and President Putin: “I understand you can’t bite the hand that feeds you, but how can you call yourself a patriot when you are Mr Putin's henchwoman?” he said.

On Brexit, he commented: “Rarely have we seen a government combining so much arrogance from certain Ministers with such a lack of a plan.” He strongly criticised the UK government for its willingness to block any attempt from Europe to cooperate more closely on, for example, security and defence. “On 20-21 October, Theresa May will be at the European Council for the first time. We now need clarity. The four fundamental freedoms are not up for discussion”, Weber reiterated.