Krištopans: “Patriots for Europe” are not extremists, but a voice for ordinary people

Member of the European Parliament Vilis Krištopans has firmly pushed back against political opponents who label the “Patriots for Europe” group as “far-right extremists.” In his view, the group is a serious political force within the European Parliament rather than a marginal phenomenon.

Krištopans recalls that the group was formed after the most recent European Parliament elections, when he was approached by several delegations, including representatives from France. At the outset, lawmakers from 12 countries joined together — 84 politicians in total — whom he calls the group's founders “for all time.” Krištopans counts himself among these founders and says he is proud of his role in the process, which he considers an indelible part of European political history.

Values and goals

The MEP notes that the group rests on three clear positions — defending family values, taking a firm stance on migration, and criticizing the Green Deal and climate-neutrality policy. In his opinion, these views are not extreme in any way but reflect a normal, everyday attitude toward life.

Krištopans argues that the label “extremists” is used not to engage in substantive debate but to discredit political rivals. He believes an increasing number of Europeans are tired of policies that impose migration, bureaucracy, and ideological experiments on them.

An ideological divide

The MEP says “Patriots for Europe” represents voters who want a stronger role for national states, protection of traditional values, and policies grounded in real life rather than Brussels ideology. He sharply criticizes those who call his group extremist, pointing to a fundamental difference in worldview between the conservative camp and the liberal-left side of European politics.

Krištopans affirms that the group will continue working on its core priorities — restricting migration, revising Green Deal policy, reinforcing family values, and expanding the rights of member states within the European Union.