Reform UK has sparked a fierce debate after banning the display of Ukrainian flags on council buildings under their control. Following their recent success in English local elections, where Nigel Farage’s party took control of ten councils—including key areas such as Kent, Lincolnshire, and Derbyshire—Reform UK swiftly enacted a policy allowing only the Union Jack and St George’s flag to be flown on official buildings.
This move has drawn sharp criticism, with opponents accusing the party of “sucking up to Moscow” by removing symbols of support for Ukraine amid its ongoing conflict with Russia. The ban dismantles a visible sign of solidarity that many communities had adopted since the conflict began.
Party chairman Zia Yusuf stated, “Reform controlled English councils will move at speed to resolve that the only flags permitted to be flown on or in its buildings will be the Union Jack and the St George’s flag. No other flags will be permitted on flag-poles, balconies, reception desks or council-chamber walls.”
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In response to backlash, including from local MPs, Reform UK did allow the flying of historic county flags in the areas they govern. Yet the prohibition on Ukrainian flags remains steadfast, coinciding with the recent VE Day commemorations that honor the Allied victory in World War II.
Labour MP Mike Tapp strongly condemned the decision, saying, “As VE Day reminds us, Britain has a proud history of working with allies to defeat dictators and tyrants. It tells you all you need to know about Nigel Farage’s Reform that their very first act after winning elections is to ban the Ukrainian flag from our town halls, in this of all weeks.”
Tapp added pointed criticism of the party’s perceived sympathies: “It’s sickening but unsurprising—Farage has openly admired Vladimir Putin. Reform councillors should stop sucking up to Moscow and immediately lift their ban on flying the Ukrainian flag.”
Veterans Minister Al Carns also weighed in, calling Reform UK’s decision “completely wrong.” He emphasized the symbolism of Ukrainian troops marching alongside British personnel on VE Day: “The Ukraine conflict reminds us that freedom isn’t free. We must continue to stand up for the values our VE generation fought for and reverse this decision.”
Reform UK defended their policy by emphasizing patriotism: “We will proudly fly the Union Jack, St George’s flag, and county flags. Unlike the Tories and Labour, we are proud of our country and history.”
The public is invited to share their views on whether the Ukrainian flag should be flown in support of Ukraine and whether Nigel Farage’s actions reflect pro-Russian sympathies in the comments section.