British soldier killed after ‘tragic accident’ in Ukraine named as Starmer pays tribute
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. The incident happened on Tuesday morning (December 9) when the member of the armed forces was watching his Ukrainian counterparts test the new defensive capability away from the front lines.
Sir Keir Starmer named Lance Corporal Hooley today (December 10) as he paid tribute to a solider “full of courage and determination.”
At Prime Minister’s Questions, Starmer said: “Lance Corporal Hooley was injured in a tragic accident away from the front lines while observing Ukrainian forces testing a new defensive capability.
(Image: Ministry of Defence)
“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 MoD confirmed the news of the tragedy with a statement posted on their official X account.
The statement 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.”
(Image: PA)
Speaking yesterday, Defence Secretary John Healey said he was “devastated” by the man’s death.
In a post on X, Healey said: “Devastated by the death of a UK service personnel 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 MoD is yet to provide any further information on the incident or the individual tragically killed.
It is currently unknown what was being tested or which part of Ukraine the incident occurred.
The incident was confirmed to have occurred away from any fighting with Russian forces.
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.
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