A member of the British Armed Forces died in Ukraine on Tuesday morning, the UK Ministry of Defence confirmed.
"It is with deep regret that we must announce that a member of the UK Armed Forces died in Ukraine this morning," the ministry stated. The incident occurred on 9 December.
"He was injured in a tragic accident whilst observing Ukrainian forces test a new defensive capability, away from the front lines," the ministry added.
The ministry emphasized that "The fatal incident is not assessed as being the result of hostile fire."
This is the first time a member of the UK military had been killed in Ukraine since Russia's February 2022 invasion, according to the ministry.
The ministry stated that the family has been notified. The name, rank, and position of the deceased have not been disclosed.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed his condolences. "My deepest sympathy and condolences to the family of the member of our Armed Forces who sadly lost their life today," Starmer said. "My thoughts are with their family, friends and colleagues as they grieve for a loved one. Our hearts go out to them," he added.
Defence Secretary John Healey said he was "devastated by the death" of the British serviceman.
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 acknowledged that "a small number" of military personnel are stationed in Ukraine.These personnel primarily provide security for British diplomatic operations and offer support to the Ukrainian armed forces.
British troops have been involved in training, advisory and technical assistance roles for Ukraine since before Russia launched its full-scale invasion in 2022.
Neither the Ukrainian Ministry of Defence nor other government agencies in Kyiv have commented on the incident.
According to open sources, 44 British citizens fighting in international units of Ukrainian defense forces have been killed since the start of the full-scale war.
