Keir Starmer has strongly criticized Nigel Farage, urging him to look into potential connections between Reform and Russia. Starmer expressed disbelief and dismay over a former prominent member of Farage’s party, Nathan Gill, receiving a lengthy prison sentence for accepting Russian bribes while serving in the European Parliament.
During a session in the Commons, Starmer highlighted the severity of the situation, calling for Reform’s leadership to conduct a thorough investigation into the matter. He questioned how such actions could occur within their party and raised concerns about any other possible affiliations.
Responding to Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch’s remarks, Starmer emphasized the dangers of aligning with Putin’s regime, stating that Reform’s pro-Putin stance would hinder global cooperation on critical issues. Badenoch also criticized Reform for downplaying Russian aggression amidst recent incidents involving Russian vessels and military provocations.
There is mounting pressure on Farage to probe further into Gill’s misconduct and determine if there are additional instances of betrayal. Gill, a former UKIP and Brexit Party MEP, admitted to accepting bribes and engaging in blackmail, prompting calls for a comprehensive investigation.
Reform UK’s deputy leader, Richard Tice, condemned Putin as a tyrant and dismissed criticisms as mere distractions. Tice reaffirmed his and Reform’s unwavering support for Ukraine, highlighting his personal contributions to aid Ukrainian soldiers.
Farage responded by emphasizing that Reform is not responsible for policing its members’ actions. Gill was found to have received substantial payments from a pro-Russia Ukrainian figure, Oleg Voloshyn, at the behest of Viktor Medvedchuk, a close associate of Putin who faced treason charges and was later exchanged to Russia following the 2022 invasion.
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