Azov reinforced by global political figure as former UK MP joins brigade
Illustrative photo: Azov Brigade (Getty Images)
Former UK MP and ex-deputy chairman of the Conservative Party Jack Lopresti announced he has joined the 12th Special Forces Brigade Azov Brigade of Ukraine’s National Guard.
Lopresti shared the announcement on his page on X.
Read also: Ukrainian defenders halt Russian offensive near Dobropillia in Zaporizhizhia region: Footage
According to Jack Lopresti, the Azov Brigade has long become a symbol of resilience and determination in confronting Russian aggression, while the war against Ukraine represents not only a fight for the country’s freedom but also for Europe’s security.
"I am honoured to begin my service with the 12th Special Forces Brigade “Azov” of the National Guard of Ukraine, a unit that has become a symbol of resilience and uncompromising principle," Lopresti wrote.
The 12th Special Forces Brigade Azov is a unit within the National Guard of Ukraine.
I am honoured to begin my service with the 12th Special Forces Brigade “Azov” of the National Guard of Ukraine, a unit that has become a symbol of resilience and uncompromising principle. pic.twitter.com/Vd9M0zgNLq
— Jack Lopresti (@JackLopresti) February 19, 2026
The decision by Jack Lopresti has sparked discussion in both the United Kingdom and Ukraine. Lopresti is not only a former politician, he previously served on the UK Parliament’s defence committee and has been a consistent advocate for military support to Ukraine.
It remains unclear what specific role he will perform within the Azov Brigade.
From parliament to Ukrainian unit
Lopresti has visited Ukraine multiple times since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion. His first visit came shortly after February 2022, when he began actively supporting Ukraine’s independence and sovereignty and urging stronger action from the UK government.
In an earlier interview with BBC, Lopresti said he became involved with Ukrainian structures at the beginning of 2025, describing the war as a fight not only for Ukraine but for Europe as a whole.
He stressed he has not served in infantry roles, instead focusing on communication with foreign politicians, diplomats, and military officials, helping strengthen international support and build links between Ukrainian institutions and international partners using his political experience.
Fighters from the Azov International Battalion carried out an operation in early February to liberate the settlement of Zolotyi Kolodiaz in the Dobropillia direction, capturing 18 Russian soldiers in a single day.
Separately, Kyiv authorities are considering renaming Enthusiastiv Street in honor of fallen 21-year-old Azov fighter Dmytro Ostrovskyi, known by the call sign Soier, who joined the defence of Ukraine at the age of 18.
