The European Parliament in its final resolution after the debates at the April plenary session called on the EU to develop a new strategic approach in relations with Russia, to help civil society more, and to limit cooperation with the Russian authorities.
“The European Parliament calls on the EU Council and the High Representative (Borrell) to develop a new strategic approach in relations between the EU and Russia, which should more support civil society, strengthen contacts between peoples, and establish a clear framework for cooperation with Russian state actors”, – the document says.
European Parliament resolutions on international issues are declarative, not binding. However, other institutions of the European Union should listen to the opinion of the MPs. The resolution entitled “Russia: the case of Alexei Navalny, the military build-up on the borders with Ukraine and the attack on the Czech Republic” was supported by 569 deputies, 67 opposed, and 46 abstained.
In 2016, the EU adopted five principles that guide all member states when interacting with Russia. The principles, in particular, include the full implementation of the Minsk agreements on Ukraine, strengthening cooperation with the EU’s eastern partners, ensuring the energy security of the European Union, developing European-Russian cooperation on international issues of interest to the EU, and, finally, supporting civil society in Russia and relations. between the peoples of the Russian Federation and the EU.