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Former British Member of Parliament Jack Lopresti Joins Ukraine’s Defense Forces

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Former British Member of Parliament Jack Lopresti Joins Ukraine’s Defense Forces
Former UK MP Jack Lopresti during his time in Ukraine. (Source: The Independent)

Former UK Member of Parliament Jack Lopresti has joined Ukraine’s Defense and Security Forces, according to The Independent on February 4. Lopresti, previously a Conservative MP for Filton and Bradley Stoke in Gloucestershire, has been living in Ukraine and contributing his expertise to support the country’s defense efforts.

In November 2024, he applied to join Ukraine’s International Legion, a unit formed of foreign volunteers aiding Ukraine.

“I submitted my application in November. It took some time to find the right unit where my experience and skills could be best utilized,” The Independent quotes Lopresti as saying.

Lopresti, who previously served in the UK Army Reserve with the rank of corporal, is not in a frontline infantry unit. Instead, his role includes external relations, procurement of military equipment, and engagement with veterans and charitable organizations working in Ukraine.

“I live in Kyiv but frequently travel across Ukraine,” he told The Independent, adding that he recently visited Kharkiv and Poltava.

Former UK MP Jack Lopresti during his time in Ukraine. (Source: The Independent)
Former UK MP Jack Lopresti during his time in Ukraine. (Source: The Independent)

During his tenure as an MP, Lopresti actively advocated for increased military assistance to Ukraine. He previously visited the country in an official capacity, expressing strong support for its defense efforts.

“Ukrainians remain determined to fight, even after nearly three years of full-scale war. Their morale is high, and there is strong resolve,” he stated.

Lopresti described his service in Ukraine’s military as an honor and a privilege, emphasizing his commitment to supporting the country in its ongoing resistance.

Earlier, the Ukrainian parliament passed amendments allowing foreign volunteers in the International Legion to serve as officers, lawmaker Yaroslav Zhelezniak announced. Previously, they could only hold ranks of privates or sergeants.

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