UK gives more funds to bolster Ukraine's efforts to bring war criminals to justice
Britain is giving another £4.5m to Ukraine to help seek justice for the war crimes that were committed during Russia's full-scale invasion of the country.
The funding will support Ukraine's documentation, investigation and prosecution of war crimes, in addition to the £6.2m previously pledged.
Most of the money is going to the Atrocity Crimes Advisory Group for Ukraine, which is an initiative involving the UK and its US and EU partners.
Numerous examples of alleged war crimes have emerged, including murder, torture, rape and the forced deportation of children.
Some of these have been videoed and distributed via social media.
One such video showed an unarmed Ukrainian soldier who had apparently been captured near Bakhmut smoking a cigarette before being shot dead.
His last words were: "Glory to Ukraine."
Another example is the massacre that took place in Bucha.
Both Defence Secretary John Healey and Foreign Secretary David Lammy have visited Ukraine.
Mr Lammy said: "While in Kyiv, I saw first-hand the inspirational bravery of the Ukrainian people.
"I'm immensely proud of the support this government is providing them as they resist Russia's illegal full-scale invasion.
"The atrocities we have witnessed in Ukraine are unspeakable.
"There can be no lasting peace without accountability, and UK support will help Ukraine as it pursues justice for the victims and survivors of these crimes.
"As we look ahead to 2025, our message is clear: we will stand with you in war, we will stand with you in peace and we will stand with you as you fight for your security and that of all of Europe."
The UK is one of Kyiv's major supporters, and the Government has pledged to provide £3bn of military support to Ukraine every year for as long as it takes.
The Government has accelerated the delivery of critical military support and provided crucial funding to help meet the Ukrainian people’s most urgent needs.
It has also trained tens of thousands of Ukrainian troops under Operation Interflex and boosted international capability coalitions to provide equipment to support Ukraine's fight against the Russian invasion.
The UK has now provided Ukraine with more than 400 different types of military capabilities, including the first 100 of a package of 650 lightweight multirole missiles, as well as advanced maritime equipment to help deny the Russian navy access to the western Black Sea.
"Throughout 2024, the fierce courage of the Ukrainian people has continued to inspire the world," said Mr Healey.
"As we enter 2025, the UK's resolve to reinforce support for Ukraine is unwavering."
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