Former Reform UK Leader Sentenced to 10.5 Years in Prison
Nathan Gill, the former leader of Reform UK in Wales, has been sentenced to 10 years and 6 months in prison for accepting bribes to promote pro-Russian propaganda while serving as a Member of the European Parliament. The 52-year-old politician pleaded guilty to eight counts of bribery after admitting he received approximately £40,000 (€45,000) from Ukrainian pro-Russian politician Oleg Voloshyn between December 2018 and July 2019.
Systematic Corruption Uncovered
Gill's activities were uncovered when counter-terrorism police stopped him at Manchester Airport in September 2021 as he attempted to board a flight to Russia. WhatsApp messages on his phone revealed a systematic bribery scheme where Voloshyn would send Gill pre-written scripts that he would then deliver as speeches in the European Parliament and during appearances on pro-Russian media outlets. 'As you let yourself be paid to say certain things, you are not sincere,' said Judge Bobbie Cheema-Grubb during sentencing at London's Old Bailey court.
Political Career Compromised
Gill served as an MEP from 2014 to 2020, first for UKIP and later for the Brexit Party, both led by Nigel Farage. During his time in the European Parliament, he used his position to advocate for Russian interests in Ukraine, particularly supporting Viktor Medvedchuk, a key ally of Vladimir Putin. The court heard that Gill arranged meetings for Medvedchuk at the European Parliament that were subsequently broadcast on Kremlin-controlled television channels.
Broader Implications for UK Security
The case has raised serious concerns about Russian influence operations in British politics. According to the UK government's recent announcement, Russia will be placed on the enhanced tier of the Foreign Influence Registration Scheme, requiring anyone working for the Russian state in the UK to declare their activities. 'This case demonstrates the sophisticated methods Russia uses to undermine Western democracies,' said a security analyst familiar with the investigation.
Reform UK Responds
Nigel Farage, now leader of Reform UK, expressed shock at Gill's actions, stating he was 'stunned by Gill's behavior and condemns it in every possible way.' The party has emphasized that Gill is no longer a member and described his conduct as 'reprehensible, treasonous and unforgivable.' The sentencing comes as the UK government intensifies efforts to counter foreign interference, particularly from Russia, following multiple incidents including the Salisbury nerve agent attack and various cyber operations targeting British institutions.
The case represents one of the most significant convictions of a British politician for foreign influence operations and serves as a stark warning about the vulnerability of democratic institutions to external manipulation.