Nathan Gill, the former leader of Reform UK Wales and ex-member of the European Parliament, was sentenced to ten and a half years in prison after pleading guilty to multiple counts of bribery. His downfall was marked by a dramatic encounter at Manchester Airport in September 2021, where he was stopped before boarding a flight to Russia. Police seized his phone and later conducted a raid on his home in Anglesey, uncovering substantial sums of cash—€5,000 (£4,400) and $5,000 (£3,800)—as well as additional electronics.
The evidence on Gill’s phone revealed significant connections with Oleg Voloshyn, a pro-Russian politician in Ukraine. Gill had agreed to disseminate pro-Russia narratives in exchange for payments. In one notable instance, he appeared on the now-banned Ukrainian channel 112 Ukraine, expressing concern about criminal proceedings against Viktor Medvedchuk, the channel’s owner and a close ally of Vladimir Putin. Prosecutors highlighted how messages exchanged between Gill and Voloshyn indicated financial incentives for public statements criticizing the investigation into Medvedchuk.
As evidence surfaced, it became clear that Gill had sought to promote pro-Russian views within European politics, offering access to other Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) for potential bribes. Dominic Murphy, head of the Counter Terrorism Command at the Metropolitan Police, noted that Gill’s actions suggested a concerted effort to undermine democracy by soliciting payments for political influence. While other MEPs were mentioned as possible targets, none had faced interviews under caution as of now, according to police reports.
Despite assertions of having pro-Russian sympathies, authorities believe Gill’s motivations were financially driven, allegedly taking at least £40,000 in cash during his illicit activities. Voloshyn, who was apprehended during a trip to the United States, now resides in Russia and faces sanctions from the UK government for his alleged role in destabilizing Ukraine.
Reform UK has publicly denounced Gill’s actions, describing them as “reprehensible, treasonous, and unforgivable.” Party leader Nigel Farage expressed shock over Gill’s guilty plea and suggested the need for investigations into foreign influences within British politics. The situation serves as a disconcerting reminder of the risks posed by corrupt practices in political spheres but also highlights the importance of accountability in safeguarding democratic integrity.