Member of UK armed forces dies in accident in Ukraine

A member of the UK armed forces has died in Ukraine as he watched the testing of a new defensive capability on Tuesday morning, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) has announced.

“He was injured in a tragic accident whilst observing Ukrainian forces test a new defensive capability, away from the front lines,” it said in a statement.

The individual’s family has been informed, it added.

Defence Secretary John Healey said he was “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.”

It is not known which service the individual served in or what their role was.

The BBC understands the incident is not thought to have been caused by hostile fire.

The MoD said it would not comment further.

The UK government has never confirmed the numbers of service people in Ukraine, but has previously acknowledged a small number in the country to support Ukraine’s armed forces and provide security to diplomatic personnel.

Shadow defence secretary James Cartlidge said he was “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.”