British politician Nathan Gill, ex-leader of the Brexit Party in Wales, pleaded guilty to corruption charges in London.
Admission of Guilt
Nathan Gill, former leader of the Brexit Party (now Reform UK) in Wales, appeared in a London court on Friday (26 September) and pleaded guilty to eight corruption-related charges. Between 6 December 2018 and 18 July 2019, he accepted money from Oleg Voloshyn in exchange for at least seven statements in the European Parliament defending Russia’s interests.
Voloshyn, a former Ukrainian parliament member from the pro-Russian party Platform for Life, was sanctioned by the U.S. in 2022. The U.S. government labeled him a “pawn” of Russian intelligence, accusing him of collaborating with Russian entities to undermine Ukrainian officials and act in Russia’s interests.
Defending Russian Interests
According to BBC, Gill delivered speeches in the European Parliament in 2018 defending Ukrainian TV channels 112 Ukraine and NewsOne, claiming they were unfairly treated by Ukrainian authorities. These channels were linked to Viktor Medvedchuk, a close ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin, who is also the godfather of Medvedchuk’s daughter. Gill also appeared on 112 Ukraine to support Medvedchuk, who was then accused of treason. Additionally, Gill organized appearances by European lawmakers on the pro-Russian channel and arranged meetings with Medvedchuk.
How the Scandal Unfolded
Gill was arrested in September 2021 at Manchester Airport under anti-terrorism laws. Authorities discovered WhatsApp messages between him and Voloshyn. During the court hearing on Friday (26 September), the prosecutor stated that the correspondence revealed an “agreement to receive money in exchange for performing his duties as an MEP.” Sentencing is expected in November. Gill’s defense acknowledged the likelihood of a prison sentence.
