Reform UK leader Nigel Farage recently attended a press conference in London to discuss the economy and renewable energy. However, his popularity with the public has taken a hit due to his response to the situation in Ukraine. On the other hand, Keir Starmer, the leader of the opposition, has seen a rise in his approval rating, indicating that British voters are satisfied with his handling of the crisis.
Farage has been facing criticism for his apparent support of Russian President Vladimir Putin in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. He has been accused of “fawning over Putin” for his criticism of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. This has caused a stir among the public and has led to a decline in Farage’s popularity.
In a recent interview with LBC, Farage stated, “I think President Zelenskyy was very unwise to tell the Americans what would happen to them if they didn’t back him. Yeah sure, Trump and Vance bit back, but I think in diplomatic terms, Zelenskyy played it very badly.” This statement has only added fuel to the fire and has further damaged Farage’s image.
According to a YouGov poll, Farage’s favorability rating has dropped from 30% to 26% since mid-February, while the number of people with an unfavorable view of him has risen from 60% to 65%. This gives him an overall rating of minus 39. On the other hand, Starmer’s favorability rating has seen a rise from minus 40 to minus 28 over the same period.
The poll also showed that former US President Donald Trump’s popularity has taken a hit among the British public, including among Reform UK voters. His favorability rating has dropped from minus 51 to minus 65 in just a month. Even among those who voted for Reform UK in the last general election, his numbers have gone from plus 38 to minus 8.
In contrast, Ukrainian President Zelenskyy’s approval ratings have seen a rise, now standing at plus 57, up from plus 48. Even among Reform UK voters, his ratings have gone from plus 12 to plus 35. This indicates that the British public has a favorable view of Zelenskyy and his handling of the situation in Ukraine.
The recent Oval Office row between Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and Zelenskyy has only added to the tension between the US and Ukraine. Trump and Vance accused Zelenskyy of not being grateful enough for the military support provided by the US. However, Farage’s criticism of Zelenskyy’s response to the situation has been met with backlash.
In a brutal slapdown in the House of Commons, Starmer told Farage to stop “fawning over Putin.” He also faced criticism for his comments on Zelenskyy not wearing a suit to the White House, with many calling it “morally wrong.”
It is clear that Farage’s actions and statements have not been well-received by the British public. His declining popularity and rising disapproval ratings are a testament to this. On the other hand, Starmer’s handling of the crisis has been praised, leading to a rise in his approval ratings.
In conclusion, it is important for leaders to carefully consider their words and actions, especially in times of crisis. The British public expects their leaders to show empathy and support for those in need, rather than causing further tension and division. It is time for Farage to reflect on his actions and work towards regaining the trust and support of the British people.
