The revelations that far-right activist Tommy Robinson was taken to Russia by Elon Musk's family foundation have sparked a high-stakes debate about the need for Britain to bolster its democratic defences against foreign interference. The visit, which saw Robinson issue calls for supporters to protest in the UK, has been condemned by Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey as an example of how "extremist elements are being used by hostile states to undermine our democracy."
Robinson's trip to Moscow last month was facilitated by Errol Musk, Elon Musk's father and a self-declared Russophile who has expressed pro-Russian views on the conflict in Ukraine. During his stay, Robinson shared video footage from a luxury Moscow hotel alongside Errol Musk, who confirmed he had covered the costs of the trip through the Musk Foundation – a philanthropic organisation established by Elon and his brother, Kimbal. The topics discussed during meetings with Russian business figures included efforts to address declining birth rates, according to Errol Musk.
The visit has drawn scrutiny amid broader concerns about the Kremlin's efforts to forge links with European far-right figures. Coinciding with Robinson's trip, Russia also hosted self-styled misogynistic influencer Andrew Tate and his brother, who posted footage of themselves with what appeared to be Russian military personnel firing weapons and riding in a tank.
This is not Robinson's first visit to Russia – he has previously praised the country for its handling of protests. However, this recent trip saw him more explicitly laud Russia's ultra-nationalist movements, sharing footage of a rally commemorating murdered British teenager Henry Nowak. Errol Musk described Robinson as "a fine young man who is learning" after becoming familiar with him during his imprisonment for breaching a contempt of court order.
The connection between Robinson and the Musk family foundation has raised fresh questions about UK authorities' continued use of X (formerly Twitter), owned by Elon Musk. The Department for Culture, Media and Sport previously indicated it would cease using the platform, citing its tendency to "favour abuse and misinformation over meaningful debate." Luke Taylor MP, a Liberal Democrat, has urged the UK to break its reliance on the platform, describing Elon Musk as "hostile to British values."