The UK Ministry of Defence said that a British soldier died in a tragic accident while observing Ukrainian forces test a new defensive capability on Tuesday.

The soldier was later identified as Lance Corporal George Hooley, 28, of the Parachute Regiment.

It is with sadness that we can confirm that the member of the UK Armed Forces who died in Ukraine yesterday is Lance Corporal George Hooley of the Parachute Regiment. pic.twitter.com/WLkSnjanRB

— Ministry of Defence 🇬🇧 (@DefenceHQ) December 10, 2025

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

Hooley’s death is the first confirmed fatality of a UK service member in Ukraine since Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022. Ukrainian authorities have not yet commented on the incident.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer extended his “deepest sympathy and condolences” to Hooley’s family, adding that his “service and sacrifice will never be forgotten.”

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,” he added.

The UK has previously stated that a “small number” of its military personnel are in Ukraine, primarily providing security for the British diplomatic mission and supporting the Ukrainian armed forces.