Andreas Georgallas
Cypriot MEP Fidias Panayiotou is under growing scrutiny for his controversial statements and actions related to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, with critics accusing him of echoing pro-Russian narratives and dodging serious questions.
According to Kathimerini's Andreas Georgallas, Panayiotou, a former YouTuber turned politician, has faced increased backlash in recent days, as two widely circulated videos have reignited public criticism. In both cases, the MEP is challenged over his stance on the war and his perceived lack of support for Ukraine.
When pressed again on why he hasn’t visited Ukraine, Panayiotou admitted he is afraid to go.
“Have you ever been to Ukraine?”
One of the videos shows Panayiotou during a speech in the European Parliament, where he claims Europe’s “moral compass is broken,” citing the severed diplomatic ties with Russia and what he described as the most extensive sanctions in history.
His remarks were sharply rebuked by German MEP Moritz Körner, who interrupted to ask a series of pointed questions: “Have you ever been to Ukraine? Have you visited it? Have you seen what is happening there?” Körner continued, “Given your influence on social media, especially among young Europeans, it’s your responsibility to see the reality for yourself, not to engage in ‘whataboutism’ as you are doing in this speech. Speak about Ukrainians, understand what’s happening there, and then come speak with us about the situation.”
German MEP @moritzkoerner puts Fidias in his place at the European Parliament. pic.twitter.com/aUrnji1R7D
— Pekka Kallioniemi (@P_Kallioniemi) May 21, 2025
Accusations of spreading Russian propaganda
In a separate interview with journalist Caolan Robertson, Panayiotou again drew criticism for repeating his call for peace talks without directly addressing Russia’s actions. When questioned about the thousands of Ukrainian children allegedly abducted by Russia, Panayiotou responded, “Some of these children might want to stay in Russia.” He then added, “How do you know that some children aren’t happy there?” He also avoided answering questions about who is responsible for the deaths in the war.
When pressed again on why he hasn’t visited Ukraine, Panayiotou admitted he is afraid to go.
Fidias has been amplifying insane Kremlin propaganda for months, so I confronted him.
— Caolan (@CaolanRob) May 21, 2025
He said abducted Ukranian children are happy in russia
He refused to answer why he is putting out lies
He got angry
This is a mask off moment pic.twitter.com/3QjERhq3Aq
Controversial vote in European Parliament
Panayiotou also came under fire for his vote in the European Parliament regarding the return of 20,000 Ukrainian children reportedly taken by Russian forces. Out of 553 MEPs present, 516 voted in favor of a resolution supporting their return. Thirty-four abstained, and only three voted against; Panayiotou was among them.
After facing criticism, he appeared to amend his vote to an abstention, though this shift did little to calm the backlash.
