Former British MP joins the Ukrainian Defense Forces

A former Tory MP has joined the Ukrainian International Legion.

The Independent reported on this.

Jack Lopresti, a former deputy chair of the Conservative Party, was previously the MP for Filton and Bradley Stoke in Gloucestershire but is now based in Ukraine, using his skills to counter Russian aggression.

Last November, the former British MP applied to join the Ukrainian International Legion.

He shared: “I did apply to join the legion in November. It took a while to find the best unit to utilize my experience and skills.”

As an MP, Mr Lopresti visited Ukraine and was a strong advocate in parliament for more aid to be given to our country to support the country’s efforts to defeat Russia.

He has also served in the UK Army Reserve as a corporal.

The 55-year-old is not in a frontline infantry unit but carries out support work.

His military duties and focus include foreign relations and diplomacy, weapons procurement, and some work with veterans and charities operating in Ukraine.

He told The Independent: “I’m based in Kyiv, but I constantly travel across Ukraine.”

Lopresti said the Ukrainians are still very much up for the fight, almost three years after Putin launched his invasion on 24 February 2022.

He said: “They are very determined indeed. Morale is high. A very resolute feeling.”