British soldier killed on duty in Ukraine named
The Prime Minister has paid tribute to Lance Corporal George Hooley
A British soldier killed on duty in Ukraine has been named by the Ministry of Defence as 28-year-old Lance Corporal George Hooley of the Parachute Regiment.
Sir Keir Starmer paid tribute to the soldier, who died in Ukraine.
At Prime Minister’s Questions Sir Keir said: “Lance Corporal Hooley was injured in a tragic accident away from the front lines while observing Ukrainian forces testing a new defensive capability.
“His life was full of courage and determination. He served our country with honour and distinction around the world in the cause of freedom and democracy, including as part of the small number of British personnel in Ukraine.”
The “tragic accident” happened on Tuesday morning when the member of the armed forces was watching his Ukrainian counterparts test a new defensive capability away from the front lines, the MoD said in a statement posted on X.
The MoD said: “It is with deep regret that we must announce that a member of the UK armed forces died in Ukraine this morning, Tuesday December 9.
“He was injured in a tragic accident whilst observing Ukrainian forces test a new defensive capability away from the front lines.
“The family has been notified and our thoughts are with them at this sad and difficult time.”
In a post on X, Defence Secretary John Healey said: “Devastated by the death of a UK service person in Ukraine.
“My thoughts are with their family, friends and colleagues as they grieve for a loved one. Our hearts go out to them.”
Shadow defence secretary James Cartlidge said: “I am deeply saddened to hear the tragic news that a member of the UK armed forces died this morning in Ukraine.
“My sincere condolences to his family and friends at this difficult time.”
The UK has previously acknowledged that a “small number” of military personnel are in the country, mainly providing security for the British diplomatic presence and supporting the Ukrainian armed forces.
The fatal incident is not assessed as being the result of hostile fire, the Press Association understands.