MI5 confirms Russian interference attempts in Brexit vote

British intelligence officials and Prime Minister Andy Burnham have addressed allegations of Russian interference during the 2016 Brexit referendum. Ken McCallum, Director General of MI5, confirmed that Russia attempted to influence public opinion through media coverage and social media activity.

McCallum noted that Russian-owned broadcasters RT and Sputnik promoted anti-EU and anti-migration messaging during the period. Additionally, there were attempts to use internet trolls and fake social media accounts, primarily on X, to sway voters. However, McCallum emphasized a distinction between attempted interference and the actual outcome, stating that evidence does not prove Russia successfully swayed the final result.

Prime Minister Burnham stated that upon arriving at Downing Street, he received a ‘clear answer’ that interference had occurred. While officials noted the attempts were not particularly sophisticated, the Prime Minister indicated the role of the Kremlin should be ‘clearly and officially documented.’