Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has launched a scathing attack on Nigel Farage, branding his recent comments about Russia's invasion of Ukraine as "disgraceful" and accusing Reform UK of becoming Vladimir Putin's "useful idiots."
Farage's Controversial Claims Spark Political Firestorm
The political clash erupted after Farage claimed in a BBC interview that the West had "provoked" Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine through NATO and EU expansion. The Reform UK leader argued that while the invasion was wrong, it represented Putin playing "the long game" amid Western provocation.
Speaking during a campaign visit to Monmouthshire, Starmer didn't hold back in his condemnation. "I think they're disgraceful comments," the Labour leader stated firmly. "To say that the West, that Britain, is in any way responsible for the Russian invasion of Ukraine is disgraceful."
Putin's 'Useful Idiots' Accusation
Starmer went even further, drawing a direct line between Reform UK and Russian interests. "It does make you wonder what exactly the Reform party stands for," he questioned. "They seem to be Putin's useful idiots in this regard, and that is a disgrace."
The Labour leader's comments reflect growing concern among mainstream politicians about Reform UK's positioning on international affairs and national security matters.
Defence Spending Becomes Election Battlefield
The controversy comes as defence emerges as a key election issue. Starmer used the opportunity to reaffirm Labour's commitment to national security, pledging to increase defence spending to 2.5% of GDP "as soon as we can," while acknowledging economic constraints.
Meanwhile, Rishi Sunak faced criticism after confirming the 2.5% target wouldn't be met until 2030, despite previously suggesting an earlier timeline. The Prime Minister defended the position, stating the date was "fully costed and fully funded."
International Backlash Grows
Farage's comments have drawn condemnation from across the political spectrum and beyond. Former Conservative defence minister Dr Andrew Murrison described the remarks as "deeply unhelpful," while Ukrainian MP Kira Rudik called them "disgusting."
Even within Reform UK, there appears to be some discomfort, with deputy leader Ben Habib attempting to distance himself from Farage's specific wording while maintaining the broader argument about Western policy.
As the General Election campaign intensifies, the clash over foreign policy and national security underscores the fundamental differences between the established parties and Reform UK's challenge to the political status quo.
