Citing a conflict over fundamental values, Robert Mehlen has quit the ADR and given up his title of honorary president, denouncing the party's Russia-friendly stance.

Robert Mehlen, a founding figure of the Alternative Democratic Reform Party (ADR), has announced his departure from the party and his resignation from the title of honorary president.

In a letter to the media, the former MP stated his reason for leaving is an inability to remain part of an organisation that engages in what he termed "Putin-friendly politics."

His decision was prompted by a recent trip to Sochi, Russia, taken by the ADR's current MEP, Fernand Kartheiser. According to Mehlen, Kartheiser met with representatives of the Russian oligarchy and referred to Europeans as "warmongers" who are blocking the peace process. In his letter, titled "D'Mooss ass voll!" ("Enough is enough!"), Mehlen also highlighted that the MEP does not accept the sanctions against Russia.

Mehlen characterised Kartheiser's positions as "drivel", accusing him of "downplaying" the Russian war of aggression in Ukraine. He further stated that Kartheiser has made himself "a propagandist for the Russian criminal clique" and supports the oppression and "terror" within the country.

Having served as the ADR's president for 20 years, Mehlen concluded that he could no longer reconcile the party's support for its MEP with his own "conception of the rule of law, freedom, and democracy." Consequently, he announced his departure from the ADR and the relinquishment of his honorary presidency.