Facing potential expulsion from his parliamentary group, Luxembourg MEP Fernand Kartheiser broke his silence Friday about his controversial trip to Russia, insisting the visit served diplomatic purposes.

Luxembourg MEP Fernand Kartheiser addressed his controversial trip to Russia during a Friday press conference, describing it as "a gesture of friendship from Russia toward Luxembourg." He noted that while other Western politicians had sought similar visits, his was among the few approved.

Kartheiser characterised discussions with Russian parliamentary and government representatives as "pleasant" but substantive, emphasising he raised key humanitarian concerns. These included calls for civilian protection, enquiries about missing Ukrainian children, and demands for minority rights in occupied territories.

The MEP framed his visit as part of broader peace efforts, stating, "anyone who wants to participate in peace efforts must talk to all parties involved in the conflict, which is what I have done." He expressed support for eventual normalisation of Russia-West relations post-war.

When questioned about potential expulsion from the European Parliament's ECR group, Kartheiser confirmed he remains a member pending a 4 June session where he will present his case. If he is excluded, he has not yet decided whether he will join another group or continue as an independent MEP.

While acknowledging an offer from another political group, he noted the "advantages" of remaining independent if excluded.