A member of the British armed forces died in Ukraine on Tuesday while observing Ukrainian forces test a new defensive capability, Britain’s Ministry of Defence said, adding that the accident had occurred away from the front lines.
It marked the first time a member of the UK military had been killed in Ukraine since Russia’s February 2022 invasion, it said.
Britain has been among Ukraine’s most outspoken supporters, supplying weapons to Kyiv and training some of its soldiers.
Last month, Britain said it was still making plans as a leading nation in the so-called “Coalition of the Willing” backing Kyiv for a multinational force in Ukraine after a ceasefire is agreed, despite stiff opposition from Russia.
“Devastated by the death of a UK service personnel in Ukraine,” defence minister John Healey said.
“My thoughts are with their family, friends and colleagues as they grieve for a loved one. Our hearts go out to them.”