Mark Collett, a prominent British far-right activist and founder of the Patriotic Alternative group, delivered a speech at an extreme nationalist forum held in St Petersburg, Russia, last September, prompting renewed scrutiny of transnational links between right-wing movements and foreign influence operations.

Collett participated virtually in the Forum of the International Anti-Globalist League, convened at the St Petersburg Legislative Assembly building by Russian oligarch Konstantin Malofeyev, who is widely described as aligned with the Kremlin and supportive of ultranationalist causes.

The gathering drew figures and groups from across Europe who share anti-globalist and nationalist agendas.

In a brief address, Collett set out themes central to his organisation’s ideology, including demographic concerns in Britain and a call for Eastern European states to resist similar population shifts.

He characterised his views on Russia’s geopolitical role as distinct from Western interests, asserting that Moscow did not desire conflict with the West and dismissing suggestions that his participation signified alignment with Russian state objectives.

Collett denied receiving financial or operational support from Russian institutions and rejected characterisations of Patriotic Alternative as acting as a proxy for Moscow.

The event’s broader programme included internationally recognised ultranationalist ideologue Alexander Dugin, whose philosophical influence is associated with nationalist and expansionist thought in Russia, and other controversial figures from France, Germany and beyond.

Organisers positioned the conference as a defence of Christian values and national identity while opposing globalist policies, a theme consistent with the rising prominence of coordinated far-right movements across borders.

Critics say such gatherings can contribute to ideological reinforcement and networking among extremist actors, but participants framed them as legitimate forums for ideological exchange.

The revelation of Collett’s involvement has drawn criticism from British lawmakers, including members of parliament concerned about foreign interference and the potential that Russia might exploit ideological affinities to undermine Western democratic institutions.

Some observers point to the growing sophistication of international far-right networks and the shared narratives that can traverse national boundaries, amplifying domestic tensions.

Collett and his supporters argue they are advocating for sovereign democratic governance and cultural preservation rather than any form of foreign agenda.

The debate has reignited discussions in the UK about how to monitor and respond to transnational extremist linkages without undermining lawful political expression.