Ed Davey Criticizes Trump And Farage At Lib Dem Conference

Ed Davey delivered a powerful closing speech at the Spring 2025 Liberal Democrat Federal Conference held in Harrogate on March 23, 2025, addressing pressing global issues and the challenges faced by the UK.

In his speech, Davey condemned Donald Trump for his perceived betrayal of Ukraine, stating that it compromises not only the sovereignty of Ukraine but also the security of Europe and the United Kingdom. “Donald Trump is not only betraying Ukraine. It’s not only their sovereignty he’s selling out. It’s our security,” Davey emphasized, highlighting that the implications of Trump’s stance affect everyone.

He strongly criticized Russian President Vladimir Putin’s aggressive actions across Eastern Europe, citing interference in countries such as Georgia, Moldova, and Romania as examples of his attempts to undermine democracies and expand his influence. “Putin might be able to fool Donald Trump into thinking that his ambitions do not extend beyond parts of Ukraine, but we know better,” Davey declared, stressing the need for vigilance against such threats.

In addressing the conference attendees, Davey expressed pride in the UK’s military support for Ukraine, which includes providing tanks, weapons, skilled training, and various military assistance to help repel Putin's advances. He praised British families who welcomed Ukrainians into their homes, showcasing the empathy and generosity of the British people. “Our brave Ukrainian allies are on the frontline, fighting not just for their homes but for the freedom and security of people across Europe, including ours here in the UK,” he noted.

Davey didn't shy away from criticizing Nigel Farage, the leader of Reform UK, for his admiration of Putin: “Unlike you and me, Nigel Farage thinks Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin are great. Not in a ‘look, we have to be pragmatic and work with them’ kind of way but more in a teenager with a celebrity crush kind of way.” He pointed out that it was alarming to hear Farage call Putin a role model, a sentiment that starkly contrasts with British principles of respect for democracy and human rights.

As he highlighted the pressing need for enhanced military support for Ukraine, Davey stated that the Liberal Democrats are pushing for a significant reallocation of frozen Russian assets to finance this support, advocating for the establishment of a new European Rearmament Bank. Furthermore, he called on the UK government to raise defense spending to 2.5% of GDP, urging cross-party discussions aimed at increasing it to 3%. “Because the threat we face is existential,” he warned, elaborating on the urgent need for stronger military readiness in the face of growing aggressions.

In terms of domestic policy, Davey pointedly criticized Farage's views on the UK's National Health Service (NHS), indicating that Farage does not support the principle of universal healthcare. “Farage has called for an American-style insurance model... just like his idol Donald would want,” Davey remarked, portraying the consequences of such policies as detrimental to ordinary people’s access to healthcare.

Reflecting on the broader political landscape, Davey asserted that it is crucial for the UK to adopt a proactive internationalist approach against the backdrop of current pressures from both Trump and Putin. “Our role in British politics has never been more essential,” he claimed, vowing to uphold liberal democracy against the perils of nationalism and populism.

He urged the Prime Minister to spearhead collaborative efforts among European and Commonwealth leaders to formulate a comprehensive response to Trump's trade policies. Davey advocated for tariffs as a means of countering Trump's aggressive trade practices, starting with those on Tesla vehicles. “Let’s stand up to Trump. Let’s stand side by side with the EU and with our Commonwealth ally Canada,” he contended, emphasizing the importance of collective action.

Davey further called for a reevaluation of the UK’s relationship with the EU, advocating for a new deal centered around a Customs Union, which would help restore the nation’s pathway back to the Single Market. He criticized the current government for allowing the nation’s political discourse to drift towards populism fueled by misrepresentation and division, emphasizing that the Liberal Democrats will fight for a positive alternative based on their core values of freedom, equality, and community.

Encouraging fellow members of the Liberal Democrats, Davey acknowledged the difficulties faced in staying true to liberal principles during challenging times: “Our country has big problems to solve...and these are challenges that can really test our values.” He expressed his belief that these problems provide an opportunity to demonstrate the effectiveness of liberal governance, advocating for a system where every citizen’s voice is heard and where access to healthcare is guaranteed for all.

As he concluded his address to the enthusiastic crowd, Davey painted a picture of hope, appealing for renewed commitment to liberal democracy at home and abroad in the face of existential threats. “This is a battle of competing values,” he declared, rallying his party members to rise to the occasion: “But friends, I know you are up for it. I know together we can win it. For the future of our democracy. For the good of our communities. For the love of our country. Let’s go to battle.”