UK political parties must reject those undermining Ukraine – Tom Tugendhat

British politicians should distance themselves from parties that want to “undermine” Ukraine’s fight against Russia, the shadow foreign secretary has said.

Tom Tugendhat said British political parties “must, in a united voice, reaffirm their commitment to Ukraine”.

His call followed comments by French politician Jordan Bardella demanding Paris “review” its support for Kyiv.

In an interview with Bloomberg, the National Rally president and prime ministerial candidate said French support for Ukraine was “irresponsible” and Paris should ensure it “gets something in return” for ongoing assistance.

Meanwhile, the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, which opposes German military support for Ukraine, topped the polls in a regional election in Saxony-Anhalt, raising the prospect it could enter government at the next national election.

Mr Tugendhat said parties who attempted to “undermine” support for Ukraine were “simply useful idiots”, adding: “It is unacceptable for any British party to associate themselves with those who wish to break our commitment to Ukraine.”

His comments appear to have been aimed at Reform UK, which has developed close ties with National Rally.

Mr Bardella addressed this year’s Reform party conference, at which he and Nigel Farage announced that they would work together to stop small boats crossing the Channel if their respective parties came to power.

Shadow security minister Alicia Kearns said: “Nigel Farage must condemn the French National Rally’s demands to weaken support for Ukraine.”