Greek journalist Kiki Tsiligkeridou spoke out on the recent assault of fellow journalist Nikos Giannopoulos by MEP Nikos Pappas in Strasbourg, describing the incident as “shocking and terrifying.”

Tsiligkeridou, who witnessed the attack firsthand, criticized what she called “bullying behavior that belongs only in the night” and stressed that such actions have no place in public life. She called on political parties to exercise greater responsibility when selecting candidates for office.

Seven journalists were reportedly present during the incident, providing multiple witnesses to the events.

Meanwhile, 35-year-old former basketball player and current MEP Pappas remains absent from public view. Reports suggest he may have returned to Athens via Germany, with some interpreting his route as an attempt to avoid immediate legal proceedings.

Pappas has publicly acknowledged on Instagram that his reaction was “wrong” but stopped short of fully accepting responsibility. He claimed there had been a “provocation” against him and indicated that the true facts of the case will be presented to authorities, citing eyewitnesses.