London, Britain – A British court in London on Friday sentenced former European Parliament member Nathan Gill, a former member of the pro-Brexit UKIP party, to 10 and a half years in prison.
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This comes after he was convicted of receiving bribes in exchange for participating in a pro-Russian influence campaign within EU institutions.
According to the details of the case, it was proven that Gil received funds from entities linked to an influence network working for Moscow.
Her aim was to influence debates and policies within the European Parliament.
Especially in matters relating to sanctions imposed on Russia and European-Russian relations.
Russian influence network within Europe
The investigations revealed that the former deputy played a role in passing on messages and political positions that aligned with the Russian narrative.
Using his position within the European Parliament to promote positions that minimize the impact of European policies against Moscow.
It was also revealed that he participated in events and meetings organized by parties connected to the campaign, in exchange for receiving secret sums of money.
This case is the latest in a series of extensive investigations in European countries into systematic Russian attempts,
This is to influence politicians, members of parliament, and public figures in order to influence EU decisions from within.
British judiciary: A betrayal of public trust
During the hearing, the judge asserted that Gill’s actions constituted a “serious breach of public trust” and a direct exploitation of his parliamentary position for foreign interests.
He stressed the need to protect European democratic institutions from any attempts at infiltration or illicit foreign funding.
Expected political repercussions
The ruling is expected to have repercussions on the British and European political landscape.
This raises growing concerns about the extent of external influence that can be exerted on national and European parliaments.
It also brings the issue back to the forefront of the debate surrounding the relationship of some European populist movements,
This includes pro-Brexit parties with foreign backing.
