Malta’s pro-Kremlin stance is being scrutinised as Russia continues to wage war against Ukraine.

As the EU strengthens its stance against Russia, Malta facilitates access to the union for Putin’s friends by selling them passports and citizenship. The Maltese opposition and a number of Maltese activists are pleading with the government for it to stop this dangerous practice.

PN MP Therese Comodini Cachia was one of those asking about Malta PM Robert Abela’s ties with Russian oligarchs.

Comodini Cachia also raised similar questions on the 28th of February.

Malta’s top blogger Manuel Delia also raised concerns on his blog today.

“…Joseph Muscat and his associates are making money from this and they stand to make more money as Russian oligarchs run out of options,” writes Delia.

Matthew Caruana Galizia is continuously calling on Malta to stop selling passports.

PN MEP David Casa said that Robert Abela should “stop serving Putin’s oligarchy”.

Dutch MP Pieter Omtizgt is also not impressed.

While Malta (finally) lifted the travel ban for Ukrainians due to the coronavirus, those that somehow manage to make it to the island will still have to fork out €100 per night for a quarantine hotel. This was reported by the Times.

Robert Abela’s statements about the war Russia continues to inflict on Ukraine have been very soft on Putin. He also hasn’t attended any pro-Ukraine demonstrations (unlike EP President Roberta Metsola).

Furthermore, the little statements of pseudo-solidarity he made only infuriated those supporting Ukraine.

A few days ago, Newsbook reported:

Robert Abela said he is grateful that he lives in Malta as one can appreciate “serenity, peace of mind and peace” that the country enjoys, while other countries, including fellow EU member states, bordering Ukraine are concerned about the influx of refugees leaving the former Soviet state after it was invaded by Russia.

In light of all this, Malta should firstly stop selling its passports. It’s creating a security risk for everyone in the European region. And secondly, Malta should start an inquiry into Russia’s influence among Maltese politicians and institutions.