The UK government has issued an appeal to army veterans not to go to Ukraine, among growing signs of former military soldiers going to the country to help in the war against the Russian invasion.
Leo Docherty, the veterans’ minister, wrote to war charities to help dissuade any servicewomen or men from travelling to the eastern European country.
The minister said they should instead be persuaded to support fundraising and charitable efforts to give help to those under attack by Vladimir Putin’s government.
On Thursday, Boris Johnson warned that soldiers serving in the armed forces who make unofficial visits to Ukraine to fight would have to face criminal court on return. In addition, Mr Docherty also warned that veterans too could find themselves having trouble with the law.
Also, he said that “good-hearted” Brits going to the war zone could wind up stressing the resources of the Ukrainian people.
The Independent’s security and defence editor Kim Sengupta, who is currently in Ukraine, has spoken with a British Military reservist among many serving and veteran members of the armed forces to help fight against Russian invaders by forming the International Legion.
The unauthorised officer, known only by Mark’s first name, said: “They are putting up a great contest, and Britain can help.”
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In yesterday’s letter, Mr Docherty told war charities: “I am requesting for your assistance in dissuading and diverting any travel attempts that catch your attention.”
“The United Kingdom government’s position remains that going to Ukraine to assist, or to fight others engaged in the struggle, may lead to prosecution and could amount to felonies against UK legislation.”
“Ukraine needs funds and equipment rather than volunteers who will put further restraints on stretched resources. I am apprehensive about the risk to citizens in what is a dangerous situation.”
Mr Docherty further stated: “We are aware of the fact that Russia’s criminal invasion has rightly brought out strong feelings of encouragement for the Ukrainian people.”
“There are various ways that we can support the citizens of Ukraine, such as donating money to charity.”
