SYRIZA MEP Nikos Pappas Denies Assaulting Journalist in Strasbourg Incident

Greek MEP Nikos Pappas has strongly denied allegations that he punched journalist Nikos Giannopoulos during an altercation in Strasbourg, admitting only to raising his hand in a moment of anger but insisting no physical harm was intended or caused.

In an interview with Mega TV on Friday—three days after the Tuesday evening incident—Pappas challenged the version of events presented by Giannopoulos and other journalists present. He claimed the confrontation began when the reporter accidentally tripped him inside a venue and refused to apologize.

"I asked him to apologize and let it go," Pappas said. "His response shocked me: 'I'm not apologizing to you, Pappas.'"

Pappas stated he then guided the journalist outside to avoid escalating the situation indoors. However, he admitted losing his temper after what he described as a provocative and vulgar personal insult.

"That's when I raised my hand, and I regret that," he explained. "But I absolutely did not punch him, strike him from behind, or intend to cause any injury."

He further referenced a subsequent exchange with a group of journalists outside, where he responded heatedly to accusations of violence. "Look at my condition—if I wanted to hurt him, I would have," Pappas added.

The incident has sparked significant controversy. On Wednesday, Giannopoulos filed a formal complaint with Strasbourg police, accusing Pappas of assault by a public official. Reports indicate French authorities pursued the case under a fast-track procedure not protected by MEP immunity. Media outlets noted Pappas returned to Greece via Germany, a route he described as routine due to limited direct flights from Strasbourg.

In response, SYRIZA leader Sokratis Famellos immediately removed Pappas from the party's European Parliament delegation. The MEP has also been referred to the party's ethics committee, with expulsion from SYRIZA widely anticipated.

French authorities continue to investigate the alleged assault, amid widespread condemnation from political figures and journalist unions.