European Parliament’s Decision
On April 28, the European Parliament voted to lift the parliamentary immunity of Romanian MEP Diana Șoșoacă. This move clears the way for Romanian law enforcement to prosecute her on criminal charges, which include:
- unlawful deprivation of liberty,
- promoting the cult of individuals convicted of genocide,
- anti-Semitism,
- Holocaust denial.
The decision was made during a plenary session, following a recommendation from the European Parliament’s relevant committee.
Allegations and Reactions
Șoșoacă is suspected of four offenses, including illegal detention. She also faces accusations of publicly promoting the cult of people convicted of genocide, as well as spreading fascist, legionary, racist, or xenophobic ideas. Additionally, she is suspected of publicly promoting anti-Semitic views and denying, challenging, endorsing, justifying, or downplaying the Holocaust. In February 2025, the Institute for the Investigation of Communist Crimes filed a complaint against her for promoting the cult of Nicolae Ceaușescu.
In March 2025, Ukraine’s Security Service banned Șoșoacă from entering the country for three years. This ban stemmed from her actions, notably in March 2023, when she introduced a bill to denounce a treaty with Ukraine and annex territories: Northern Bukovina, Hertsa, Budjak (Bolhrad, Izmail), Maramureș, and Snake Island. A planned 2023 speech by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Romania’s parliament was canceled due to pro-Russian lawmakers.
Șoșoacă responded to the situation, stating:
“I am now preparing to challenge this in the European Union’s court; I have all the documents ready. What is happening in the European Parliament right now is unprecedented.”
She also issued threats against Volodymyr Zelenskyy:
“If he (Volodymyr Zelenskyy) dares to come to my parliament, I will break his legs! Let him not dare to give a speech in my parliament.”Șoșoacă emphasized that she is obligated to defend Romania’s sovereignty and independence by reacting to ‘enemies’ of her people.
The case of Diana Șoșoacă highlights growing tensions within Romania’s political landscape and its relations with neighboring countries, particularly Ukraine. The European Parliament’s decision to remove her immunity could have far-reaching effects on her political career and public attitudes toward such extreme views. It also underscores the importance of international oversight of politicians who may threaten democratic values and human rights. Amid regional instability, such incidents may further strain relations between bordering nations.
In light of the recent developments surrounding Diana Șoșoacă, it is essential to consider the broader implications of her actions on the political landscape. Following the European Parliament's decision, a Romanian court has mandated a psychiatric evaluation for the MEP, raising questions about her mental fitness for office. For more insights on this unfolding situation, read about the court's ruling on her psychiatric assessment here.