Overview
- Hooley, 28, of the Parachute Regiment, died on Tuesday while observing Ukrainian forces test a new defensive capability away from the front lines.
- Officials said hostile fire is not suspected, and the soldier was in an observer role rather than engaged in combat operations.
- Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Defence Secretary John Healey led tributes, with condolences also noted by allied counterparts during Healey’s Washington visit.
- The MoD has withheld operational details, including the location and the system being tested, and has begun an internal investigation.
- The UK acknowledges only a small number of personnel in Ukraine for training, technical support and diplomatic security, and it has not confirmed media speculation about Special Forces involvement.