In a strong rebuttal, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Labour leader Keir Starmer have criticized Nigel Farage, leader of Reform UK, for his comments suggesting that the European Union (EU) and NATO had provoked Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Sunak labeled Farage's remarks as "completely wrong" and argued that they played into the hands of Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Speaking to reporters on Saturday, Sunak emphasized the importance of not appeasing Putin and highlighted the dangerous implications such appeasement could have for Britain's security and the security of its allies. He further pointed out that Putin was responsible for the deployment of nerve agents on UK streets.

Starmer echoed Sunak's sentiments, describing Farage's comments as "disgraceful." He firmly asserted that Russia alone bore the responsibility for the invasion of Ukraine. Starmer emphasized the need for clarity from individuals seeking parliamentary positions, stating that they must recognize Russia as the aggressor and stand in solidarity with Ukraine.

Farage made these controversial statements during an interview with BBC's Panorama ahead of the upcoming July 4 UK general elections. In the interview, he was challenged on a social media post he had shared at the beginning of the conflict in 2022, suggesting that the conflict was a consequence of EU and NATO expansion.

When questioned about his views, Farage explained that he had been expressing concerns about the growing influence of the military alliance and the EU for decades. He argued that their actions had played a role in provoking the war.

Farage's remarks have sparked widespread criticism, not only from Sunak and Starmer but also from Labour defense spokesman John Healey. Healey described Farage as a Putin apologist who could not be trusted with national security.

Responding to the backlash on social media, Farage defended his stance, asserting that he has been consistent and honest about the war with Russia. He acknowledged that Putin was wrong to invade a sovereign nation but also maintained that the EU was at fault for expanding eastward.

The controversy surrounding Farage's comments has drawn attention to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the differing perspectives on the role of the EU and NATO. With the UK general elections approaching, these remarks have further fueled the debate on national security and foreign policy.

As the nation awaits the election results, the focus remains on the unity of parliamentary voices in standing against Russian aggression and supporting Ukraine in its struggle for sovereignty.