UK should be proud to see British weapons used by Ukraine, Defence Secretary says
The UK "should be proud" of British weapons being used by Ukraine despite Kyiv's incursion into Russian territory, Defence Secretary John Healey says.
Writing in the Sunday Express, Mr Healey said Ukraine has the right to defend itself from Russia's illegal invasion.
"Providing international law is followed, that does not rule out operations inside Russia," he wrote in the Sunday Express.
"The bold incursion by Ukrainian troops into Russia in recent days – to defend against further Russian strikes on Ukrainian towns and cities – has exposed vulnerabilities in Russia's military and put (President Vladimir) Putin under pressure," he said.
"Let me be very clear: under Article 51 of the UN Charter, Ukraine has a clear right of self-defence against Russia's illegal attacks.
"We should be proud of Britain's support for Ukraine's struggle.
"We should be proud that British-donated equipment, in the hands of brave Ukrainians on the frontline, is helping them to defend their country and push back Putin."
British weapons, including the Challenger 2 main battle tank, have reportedly been used in the incursion into Russia's Kursk region.
The use of such weapons has helped the Ukrainian Armed Forces seize areas including the town of Sudzha, six miles from the border.
Mr Healey said: "With these conflicts at a crossroads, the stakes are higher than ever. And it is a reminder, here in Britain, of the importance of being secure at home and strong abroad.
"After just six weeks as Britain's Defence Secretary, I am more certain than ever that the defence of the UK – and of Europe – starts in Ukraine," he added.
"Because if Putin succeeds in Ukraine, he will not stop there, and others like him will be emboldened.
"So, we will stand by our brave Ukrainian friends for as long as it takes. Britain is united for Ukraine.
"We will not step back at this critical moment.
"As a new Government, we will play a renewed role on the world stage alongside our Nato allies.
"To stand up to autocrats like Putin and stand for stability and rules-based international order."
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