A former British MP is serving in the Ukrainian Armed Forces to help "fight against Putin."

Former UK Member of Parliament Jack Lopresti has joined the Ukrainian International Legion. The official brings military experience to the role, having previously served as a corporal in the reserve forces of the British Army.

https://focus.ua/voennye-novosti/691545-v-vsu-sluzhit-byvshiy-britanskiy-politik-novosti-ukrainy-segodnya2025-02-03 07:53:13

Jack Lopresti, a former deputy chairman of the Conservative Party, joined the ranks of the Ukrainian International Legion to assist in the war against Russia. After losing his mandate due to his party's defeat in the UK elections, he decided to travel to Ukraine, initially to aid a charitable organization. However, his true intention was to enlist in the international legion—a military unit of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, comprised of volunteers from various countries. Lopresti shared this during an interview with The Independent on February 2.

The former official began his service in the Armed Forces of Ukraine back in November 2024. He admitted that he had to wait to find the right unit where his skills could be beneficial to Ukrainians in their fight against the Russian Federation.

"I applied to join the legion in November, but it took time to find the best unit where my experience and skills could be utilized," Lopresti explained.

Currently, the ex-MP is performing support roles: handling external relations, procuring weapons, and engaging in diplomacy. He is also actively working with veterans and assisting Ukrainian charitable organizations. In fulfilling his duties, the Brit frequently travels across Ukraine, having recently visited Kharkiv and Poltava.

During the interview, Lopresti explained why he made this choice to support Ukraine. According to him, Ukrainians are fighting not only for their freedom but also for Europe and the rest of the free world. He believes that Russia currently poses a threat to everyone, making it essential to assist Ukraine.

"If Putin wins in Ukraine, we all know he won't stop there," the former politician asserts.

It is worth noting that Lopresti visited Ukraine even before he became a volunteer in the legion. During his time as an MP, he traveled there for work obligations and was a strong advocate for providing more assistance to Ukraine.

Additionally, it has been reported that France and Britain are discussing sending their troops to Ukraine.