Europe's far right has a Putin problem

Europe’s far-right parties are grappling with a dilemma: balancing support for Vladimir Putin’s Russia while navigating the growing anti-Russian sentiment across Western Europe. As nationalist and right-wing populist parties gain traction in the region, some leaders are distancing themselves from their former admiration for Russia, while others are taking a more conditional approach.

In the UK, Nigel Farage, leader of the Reform party, has softened his rhetoric on Russia and Ukraine since the invasion began. He has called Putin a "very bad dude" and suggested using frozen Russian assets to aid Ukraine. Farage is reportedly considering a trip to Ukraine to distance himself from his previous pro-Russian stance.

In France, Marine Le Pen, leader of the National Rally party, initially sympathized with Russia but has since condemned Russian aggression and supported military assistance to Ukraine. Le Pen is now wary of Paris's budget constraints and cautious about supporting Kyiv's EU membership.

Germany's Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, Europe's largest and most extreme nationalist party, is taking the opposite path. AfD has emerged as a frontrunner in the polls, while its UK counterpart, Farage's Reform party, was once a favorite to win the next UK elections. Experts suggest that this divide within Europe's far-right parties could have significant implications for Ukraine as the continent prepares for a string of crucial elections.