A member of the UK armed forces has been killed in a “tragic accident” whilst observing the testing of new defensive capability in Ukraine, the Ministry of Defence has said.
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.
The MoD confirmed the news 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.
(Image: Getty Images)
“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.”
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.
(Image: Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)
“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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