European Commission representative Martin Selmayr had to answer questions from the Austrian Foreign Ministry after his ‘blood money’ claim. Nothing further was announced about the content of the meeting. Selmayr had said that “blood money was sent to Russia every day with the gas bill.”
“Oh my God, 55 percent of Austria’s gas still comes from Russia,” the EU representative said Wednesday evening during the discussion event at the contemporary art fair in Vienna. Austria would use it to finance Putin’s war. So far, no one on Vienna’s Ringstrasse has thought of protesting against it. That would surprise him, Selmayr said.
Subsequently, a stream of criticism came from various quarters. On Monday, the politician had to appear in Brussels for a report – the European Commission had already distanced itself from his statements (see video above). European Minister Karoline Edtstadler (ÖVP) described the statements as ‘questionable and counterproductive’, and they were also ‘completely one-sided’.
As expected, the FPÖ also reacted indignantly. The party even called for Selmayr’s recall. Justice Minister Alma Zadic and Health Minister Johannes Rauch (both Greens) are not allowed to participate with the politician in upcoming events at the House of the European Union.
Some politicians also showed understanding
However, some other politicians showed understanding. “The wording was exaggerated, it was certainly not the most diplomatic sword, but in essence he was right,” said EU Parliament Vice-President Evelyn Regner (SPÖ). EU delegation leader Monika Vana (Greens) spoke of a “silly seasonal debate”. NEOS MEP Claudia Gamon asked: “Since when are you summoned to the foreign office in Austria if you tell the truth?”
Source: Krone
I am Ida Scott, a journalist and content author with a passion for uncovering the truth. I have been writing professionally for Today Times Live since 2020 and specialize in political news. My career began when I was just 17; I had already developed a knack for research and an eye for detail which made me stand out from my peers.
