UK PM Burnham says Russia interfered in 2016 Brexit vote

UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham has stated that Russia interfered in the 2016 EU Brexit referendum, though he did not disclose how or provide evidence. Burnham emphasized the importance of warning Germany and France of this danger, asserting that Russia clearly interfered in Britain's vote to leave the European Union. Speaking on The Rest is Politics podcast, Burnham revealed he questioned his advisers upon becoming prime minister in July regarding potential Russian interference in the 2016 referendum, to which he was clearly told that interference had indeed occurred.

Burnham stressed the significance of these revelations, stating they should be made public to help voters in Germany and France understand that such politics are instigated by their enemies, particularly Russia. The UK had voted to exit the EU in 2016, with 52% of the electorate supporting Brexit compared to 48% who favored remaining in the union. However, a month later, Burnham indicated he might campaign to rejoin the EU at the next general election.

Russia has consistently denied meddling in foreign elections or referendums. The Russian embassy in London declined to comment on Burnham's remarks. UK intelligence agencies have raised concerns about the growing threat of Russian interference in Britain's democratic institutions. This is Burnham's first public acknowledgment of Russian involvement in the Brexit vote, disclosed while discussing the podcast.

Burnham also mentioned during a recent meeting with Germany's Chancellor, Friedrich Merz, that the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party is clearly linked to Russia, funded by them. He alleged widespread misinformation and disinformation originating from Russia and infiltrating German politics. The UK's Intelligence and Security Committee concluded in 2020 that the government had failed to adequately evaluate the potential impact that Russian state-run media and online 'trolls' could have on the EU referendum.