The United Kingdom has reinforced its leadership in supporting Ukraine, announcing a new £4.5 million funding package to aid Ukraine’s efforts to document, investigate, and prosecute war crimes committed during Russia’s ongoing invasion.
The funding is intended to support Ukraine’s war crimes investigations and aligns with the UK’s continued efforts alongside the US and EU through the Atrocity Crimes Advisory Group.
The announcement comes as part of the UK’s broader commitment to Ukraine, which has seen more than £12 billion in military aid since the start of the invasion, and includes a £3 billion commitment to provide military support annually for the foreseeable future.
Defence Secretary John Healey, speaking about the UK’s role, stated: “Throughout 2024, the fierce courage of the Ukrainian people has continued to inspire the world. As we enter 2025, the UK’s resolve to reinforce support for Ukraine is unwavering.”
The funding will assist in prosecuting perpetrators of war crimes by enhancing the Ukrainian legal system’s ability to gather evidence and build comprehensive cases, particularly related to conflict-related sexual violence (CRSV).
The UK has been a key player in enabling Ukraine to build its legal and investigative capabilities, with ongoing support for police officers, investigators, and prosecutors. The government’s commitment to prosecuting these crimes is underscored by the £39 million allocation for counter-drone technology and air defence systems, part of a larger package of support including equipment for the Ukrainian navy, air force, and ground forces.
Foreign Secretary David Lammy also reaffirmed the UK’s long-term commitment, with Lammy noting: “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.”
Additionally, the UK has committed to further military aid, including drones, and training for Ukrainian forces under the UK-led Operation Interflex. This is in addition to the continuation of the Defence Industrial Support Treaty, which facilitates long-term military cooperation between the UK and Ukraine.
All war is a crime when it comes to conflict but sadly that is a fact of the beast however, cold-blooded murder should be challenged by the World’s courts no matter who is being judged nor should time be a way of avoiding conviction.
hear hear
I actually am not clear why this is coming through John Healey the Def Sec, rather than the Foreign Secretary or a legal official.
Creating more jobs for lawyers, sounds like the sort of thing Starmer would approve of.