Full Breakdown
Controversy Surrounds RMT Leader Eddie Dempsey's 2015 Visit to Occupied Ukraine
1/17/2026, 9:47:31 PM
Key Details of the Visit
Eddie Dempsey, the General Secretary of the National Union of Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers (RMT), visited the Donbas region of Ukraine in May 2015, shortly after it had been invaded by Russia. Dempsey characterized the trip as a "humanitarian convoy," aimed at addressing the aftermath of the House of Trade Unions fire in Odesa in 2014, which resulted in the deaths of at least 42 people during clashes with far-right nationalists. However, video footage and photographs from the visit show Dempsey holding a red flag bearing the Communist Party emblem and participating in pro-Russian chants, including slogans like “United we are invincible” and “The Donbas, the tomb of fascism.”
Context of the Trip
The trip was organized by the Anti-Fascist Forum and included participation from pro-Russian separatists. Dempsey was reportedly invited by Aleksey Mozgovoy, the founder of the Prizrak Brigade, a pro-Russian militia, who was killed shortly after the visit. During the event, Dempsey was seen wearing a T-shirt featuring the coat of arms of Novorossiya, a historical region that encompassed parts of Ukraine.
Official Statements & Responses
An RMT spokesperson defended Dempsey, stating, “He has at no time supported Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and has repeatedly called for a peaceful resolution to the conflict.” They emphasized that Dempsey's motivations were humanitarian, stemming from the tragic events in Odesa. The spokesperson also highlighted Dempsey's lifelong commitment to anti-fascism and fighting racism.
Criticism & Opposition
The visit has drawn significant criticism, particularly from commentators who view it as indicative of a pro-Putin sentiment within segments of the British Left. Critics argue that Dempsey's actions undermine the RMT's credibility and reflect a troubling alignment with pro-Russian narratives. The RMT's 2025 conference, which passed a motion to cease military aid to Ukraine, has further fueled these concerns.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While Dempsey and RMT representatives maintain that the visit was purely humanitarian, critics assert that his participation in pro-Russian activities contradicts this narrative. The union has not provided detailed comments on the specifics of the 2015 visit, leaving room for interpretation regarding Dempsey's intentions.
Verbatim Quotes
- “An RMT spokesperson said: “Eddie Dempsey is a lifelong anti-fascist with an extensive track record of fighting racism in Britain and abroad.” — RMT Spokesperson
- “Mr Dempsey has at no time supported Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and has repeatedly called for a peaceful resolution to the conflict.” — RMT Spokesperson
The controversy surrounding Eddie Dempsey's 2015 visit to occupied Ukraine continues to evoke strong reactions, highlighting the complexities of political affiliations and humanitarian efforts in conflict zones.
