Nigel Farage and his allies are being targeted by David Lammy, who accuses Vladimir Putin of wanting them to succeed in order to sow division in Europe. Lammy criticized Reform UK, pointing out the recent conviction of their former leader in Wales for accepting funds from the Kremlin. Lammy, speaking at a conference in Amsterdam, highlighted the Kremlin’s history of supporting anti-European unity networks.
Lammy expressed concerns about the international populist right network, linking Farage to various right-wing figures worldwide. He emphasized the network’s effective organization and collaboration, citing examples like Martin Sellner, Tommy Robinson, Steve Bannon, Marine Le Pen, and others. Lammy stressed the need for change in response to the suffering of the people, noting the volatile political landscape.
In a defiant tone, Lammy vowed that Farage and his counterparts would not succeed in their endeavors. He criticized Farage’s tactics of attacking institutions and mobilizing grievances, warning that such actions come at a price. Lammy urged unity across Europe to prevent the populist right from gaining further ground.
Farage defended himself against accusations of being soft on Russia, emphasizing his support for measures like shooting down Russian jets in NATO airspace and aiding Ukraine with frozen Russian assets. Despite facing backlash over his admiration for Putin, Farage sought to dispel doubts about his commitment to Britain’s national security.