Tensions Rise as Romanian MEP Threatens Ukrainian President Zelensky

Diana Sosoaca, a Romanian Member of the European Parliament and far-right political activist, has issued a direct threat against Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, stating, “If he dares to come to my parliament, I will break his legs!” This remark was made during a meeting in Moscow organized by the pro-Kremlin Friends of Russia group. Sosoaca, who is banned from entering Ukraine, has been vocal in her opposition to Zelensky, labeling him a "Nazi" and criticizing his planned address to the Romanian parliament, which was ultimately canceled due to opposition from pro-Russian lawmakers.

‘I’ll Break Zelensky’s Legs’: Pro-Russia Romanian EU Parliamentarian Rants in MoscowWitkoff at the White House demanded that Ukraine hand over Donetsk region to RussiaThe Jamestown FoundationOPINION: Trump Needs to Be Aware That the Kremlin Respects Only StrengthNewsweek

Elected to the Romanian Senate in 2020 from the Alliance for the Union of Romania (AUR) party, Sosoaca later formed her own movement, S.O.S. România, after being excluded from AUR's caucus. Known for her Eurosceptic and anti-immigration views, she gained notoriety during the COVID-19 pandemic by opposing quarantine measures and vaccination campaigns. In 2024, she claimed that aid to Ukraine was detrimental to Romania, urging an end to weapon supplies to Ukraine's Armed Forces.

‘I’ll Break Zelensky’s Legs’: Pro-Russia Romanian EU Parliamentarian Rants in Moscow

Sosoaca has consistently criticized Ukraine, describing it as an “artificial state” and opposing Romania's membership in the EU and NATO, which she argues entangles Romania in foreign conflicts. Her rhetoric aligns with Kremlin narratives, as she has called for the return of territories she claims are historically Romanian, including parts of Ukraine. In 2023, Ukraine's Security Service (SBU) banned her from entering the country for three years.

‘I’ll Break Zelensky’s Legs’: Pro-Russia Romanian EU Parliamentarian Rants in MoscowNewsweekOPINION: Trump Needs to Be Aware That the Kremlin Respects Only StrengthWitkoff at the White House demanded that Ukraine hand over Donetsk region to RussiaThe Jamestown Foundation

Ukrainian officials have condemned Sosoaca's remarks, viewing them as part of a broader pattern of Russian influence and aggression in Eastern Europe. President Zelensky has maintained that Ukraine will not concede any territory to Russia, emphasizing the strategic importance of regions like Donetsk, which is currently under threat from Russian forces. The Ukrainian government continues to strengthen its defense capabilities and seeks support from international partners.

Witkoff at the White House demanded that Ukraine hand over Donetsk region to Russia‘I’ll Break Zelensky’s Legs’: Pro-Russia Romanian EU Parliamentarian Rants in MoscowOPINION: Trump Needs to Be Aware That the Kremlin Respects Only StrengthNewsweekThe Jamestown Foundation

While Sosoaca's comments have drawn significant attention, there is a lack of detailed responses from Romanian officials regarding her threats. Additionally, the broader implications of her statements on Romania's foreign policy and its relationship with Ukraine remain unclear. The Romanian government has not publicly addressed the potential impact of her rhetoric on bilateral relations.

‘I’ll Break Zelensky’s Legs’: Pro-Russia Romanian EU Parliamentarian Rants in Moscow

• “If he dares to come to my parliament, I will break his legs!” — Diana Sosoaca, Romanian MEP

‘I’ll Break Zelensky’s Legs’: Pro-Russia Romanian EU Parliamentarian Rants in Moscow

• “By the way, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine will not make any concessions to Russia and will continue to strengthen cooperation with international partners in the defense and energy sectors.” — President Volodymyr Zelensky

Witkoff at the White House demanded that Ukraine hand over Donetsk region to Russia

As tensions escalate, the situation highlights the complex interplay of national politics, regional security, and the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, with figures like Sosoaca playing a controversial role in shaping public discourse.

‘I’ll Break Zelensky’s Legs’: Pro-Russia Romanian EU Parliamentarian Rants in Moscow