He said the European sanctions against Mr Malofeev, whom he described as a "friend", were "only based on his opinions", adding: "He is being condemned for his statements about his love for Russia. The European Union has regressed to the time of the Reign of Terror." Mr de Villiers' company, Puy du Fou International, and Mr Malofeev are to invest at least four billion roubles (£66 million) in the two theme parks.