Reform has come under fire for what some perceive as showing sympathy towards Russian President Vladimir Putin by wavering on supporting Ukraine’s NATO membership. Labour MP Calvin Bailey, a former RAF wing commander, criticized Nigel Farage and his associates for echoing Kremlin-influenced viewpoints. This criticism arose following comments from Richard Tice, Farage’s deputy, suggesting that Ukraine should not join NATO if it is a red line for Putin.
Tice proposed that Kyiv should make concessions for peace, contradicting his party leader’s stance in February that Ukraine’s NATO accession was crucial. Bailey emphasized Reform’s shift away from supporting Ukraine’s NATO membership, implying a trend of aligning with Putin’s views due to Farage’s past admiration for the Russian leader.
Bailey asserted that Ukraine’s path towards NATO membership is irreversible, particularly after accusations against Farage by Democrat Jamie Raskin for being pro-Putin during a US Congressional hearing. While Farage previously praised Putin as a skilled operator, the Reform leader initially deemed Ukraine’s NATO entry vital for peace, yet Tice later suggested Ukraine needed to accept a compromise for a lasting resolution.
Tice recommended focusing on seizing frozen Russian assets worth £25 billion, emphasizing Putin’s financial interests as a leverage point. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has expressed determination for his country to join NATO, a move that would trigger collective defense within the alliance.
Regarding Ukraine’s NATO aspirations, Tice posed a hypothetical scenario where Putin’s acceptance of a deal hinges on Ukraine’s NATO membership within a specified timeframe, questioning whether continued conflict or alternative solutions would prevail. A Reform spokesperson reaffirmed the party’s unwavering support for Ukraine and dismissed Labour’s accusations as unfounded smears.