Reform UK is facing a major controversy after one of its most significant financial backers, millionaire Zia Yusuf, publicly lauded Russian President Vladimir Putin's leadership as "brilliant" and "very smart". The comments, made at a high-profile event, have sent shockwaves through Westminster and triggered a fierce political backlash.
Yusuf, whose substantial donations have bolstered Nigel Farage's party, made the contentious remarks during a panel discussion. His praise for the Russian leader, whose forces are engaged in a brutal war against Ukraine, has been condemned as deeply irresponsible and damaging.
Financial Backing and Political Influence
Records from the Electoral Commission reveal the scale of Yusuf's financial support. His company, ZY Green Energy, donated £50,000 to Reform UK in March. Furthermore, Yusuf personally contributed an additional £10,000 directly to the party in May, cementing his status as a key donor during a critical election period.
This financial backing grants Yusuf considerable access and influence within the party, a connection that is now under intense scrutiny given his views on the Kremlin.
A History of Controversial Statements
This is not the first time Yusuf's comments have raised eyebrows. In the same discussion, he expressed a belief that the UK should have remained neutral following Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, a stance directly at odds with the British government's unwavering support for Kyiv.
His admiration for Putin's strategic acumen, despite international condemnation for war crimes and atrocities committed by Russian forces, has drawn widespread criticism from across the political spectrum.
Reform UK's Response and Mounting Pressure
The revelation places Reform UK leader Nigel Farage in a difficult position. While the party has sought to project a strong stance on national defence, its association with a donor who openly admires the Russian president threatens to undermine its credibility.
Political opponents have been quick to seize on the story. The Conservative Party accused Reform of being "in bed with Putin apologists," while Labour demanded that Farage immediately return the tainted donations. This scandal adds to a series of challenges for Reform, including previous incidents involving other candidates and officials making offensive statements.
As the general election campaign intensifies, the party's links to Russia-friendly figures and its handling of this latest crisis will be closely watched by voters and commentators alike, posing a significant threat to its electoral ambitions.
