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Ukraine 2025-10-15
15 October 2025
Lead MP
The Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs
Debate Type
Ministerial Statement
Tags
UkraineDefenceEconomyClimate
Other Contributors: 28
At a Glance
The Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs raised concerns about ukraine 2025-10-15 in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Government Statement
UkraineDefenceEconomyClimate
Government Statement
Today I am making a statement regarding the latest situation in Ukraine, including recent strikes against Kyiv, ongoing Russian aggression, and a new package of sanctions against Russian oil and gas. The UK stands firmly with Ukraine as Europe’s security is vital for our own. Despite Russia's illegal invasion three and a half years ago, President Putin has failed to achieve his war aims due to Ukrainian resilience and international support. Major new UK sanctions targeting Russia's largest oil companies and shadow fleet will increase economic pressure on Putin's regime. The UK pledges £4.5 billion in military aid for Ukraine this year, including over £150 million in air defence and artillery recently delivered. We also announce £142 million in emergency energy support to restore vital infrastructure during the winter period. Additionally, we are implementing a comprehensive sanctions package targeting 90 entities, including refineries, drone and missile suppliers, and shadow fleet vessels, further disrupting Russia’s oil market. The UK is urging international partners to target Russian oil and gas to ramp up pressure on Putin's regime.
Priti Patel
Con
Witham
Question
I welcome the Foreign Secretary to her new role but express concern about the ongoing situation in Ukraine, including recent strikes against Kyiv. While acknowledging the UK’s support for Ukraine, I question the effectiveness and timing of the sanctions announced today. We must ensure that these measures do not inadvertently harm our own economy or allies who rely on Russian oil and gas.
Minister reply
The sanctions are carefully targeted to avoid harming innocent civilians or international partners who rely on Russian energy. Our primary goal is to increase economic pressure on Putin's regime, which has been fuelling the war in Ukraine. We will continue to work with our allies to ensure that these measures are effective and do not harm our own economy.
Islington South and Finsbury
Question
The Chair of the Foreign Affairs Committee welcomed the new sanctions but raised concerns about enforcement, noting only a £15,000 fine against British businesses for breaches of sanctions on Russia or Russian state entities.
Minister reply
The Minister acknowledged the need for stronger action to deter non-compliance and noted that since May 2025, Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation penalties totalled over £900,000 with a £1.1 million compound settlement with HMRC.
James MacCleary MP
Lib Dem
Lewes
Question
The Liberal Democrat spokesperson thanked the Foreign Secretary for advance sight of her statement and welcomed the announcement of fresh sanctions targeting Russian oil and gas revenues, emphasising the need to go further in undermining Putin's war machine.
Minister reply
The Minister did not provide a direct answer but noted that Britain will continue to support Ukraine’s air defence needs and foster innovation in defence technology within Ukraine.
Orkney and Shetland
Question
I was very pleased to hear of the Foreign Secretary’s ambition to progress plans to use the full value of frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine’s war effort. That is a measure that the Liberal Democrats have been pushing for action on for some months. The Government need to move at pace as Ukraine continues to face Putin’s relentless assault, so can the Foreign Secretary confirm the timetable she is looking at for new funds becoming available from frozen assets? Can she outline how those funds will be allocated, and if barriers to seizing those assets are put in place internationally, can she commit to the UK Government acting unilaterally when it comes to seizing the assets held in the UK?
Minister reply
On Russian sovereign assets, if what we do is to have a proper impact, both on Russia and on the market, it is right that we should work alongside partners, and we welcome the statements from President von der Leyen and the G7 Finance Ministers. I can tell the hon. Gentleman that this is a huge priority for me and for the Chancellor, who is pursuing those exact issues about timetables, and about the final steps we need to take around Russian sovereign assets in Washington today.
John Nicolson
SNP
Dunbartonshire East
Question
It is more than three years since Roman Abramovich sold Chelsea football club. In June, the then Foreign Secretary said that the Government were ready and willing to take legal action to finally secure the £2.5 billion generated from the sale that is earmarked for additional support for Ukraine. It appears, however, that the Government’s bark has been worse than their bite so far, as we have heard no more about how the Government intend to pursue those assets. What concrete action have the Government taken since June to secure them?
Minister reply
The issue of the proceeds from the sale of Chelsea football club is a priority for me personally. We must ensure that those proceeds can reach humanitarian causes in Ukraine, following Russia’s illegal full-scale invasion. I am deeply frustrated that that has not been possible so far, but we are fully prepared to pursue this matter through the courts if required, while the door for negotiations remains open.
Alex Sobel
Lab/Co-op
Leeds Central and Headingley
Question
I thank the Speaker, the Speaker’s Office and the Deputy Speakers for the gracious welcome they today gave Ruslan Stefanchuk, the Speaker of the Rada. Also, seeing the Foreign Secretary in Kyiv on her first foreign visit was a real fillip for the people of Ukraine. I thank the Foreign Secretary for the sanctions package, but I would like to ask further questions about the seizure of Russian assets. Are we working at pace with our allies to ensure the seizure of Russian assets? Ukrainians know that their best chance of winning this war will come from the move from freezing to seizing assets.
Minister reply
I thank my hon. Friend for his continued work for many years on Ukraine. It was great to see the Secretary of State out in Ukraine; I know it was very much appreciated by our Ukrainian colleagues. We have been supporting organisations such as Bring Kids Back UA and Save Ukraine, which are supporting efforts to return Ukrainian children.
Johanna Baxter
Lab
Paisley and Renfrewshire South
Question
In September, the Yale School of Public Health Humanitarian Research Lab revealed that the number of facilities that Russia is using in its forced deportation of Ukrainian children has risen from 53 to 210. That report highlighted that 110 facilities were being used to re-educate children, and that at 39 of those facilities military training was being provided to train Ukrainian children to throw the grenades and pilot the drones that are destroying their homes and killing their families. Could my right hon. Friend outline what further steps are being taken to relocate, rescue and return those children to their families?
Minister reply
The forcible deportation—the kidnapping—of almost 20,000 Ukrainian children by Russia is one of the most disturbing aspects of this war. We have been supporting organisations such as Bring Kids Back UA and Save Ukraine.
Edward Leigh
Con
Gainsborough
Question
Fifty years ago, I was working down the corridor here for Margaret Thatcher. I make that point to give an opportunity to the Foreign Secretary to pay tribute, on the centenary of her birth, to the lady who won the cold war with Ronald Reagan. The other point I want to make is: why did we win the cold war? We did not fire a single bullet; it was all about economic pressure on the Soviet Union—Russia’s precursor, of course. Following the point made by the former Prime Minister, my right hon. Friend the Member for Richmond and Northallerton (Rishi Sunak), I think the whole House is determined and united on the issue of Russian assets. Is the Foreign Secretary confident that we can make progress on this, because the way to bring down this regime and end the war is, as we did with the Soviet Union, to break them economically?
Minister reply
I pay tribute to my right hon. Friend for his long service in this place, which he also mentioned. There is strong agreement across this House: we have to get those assets mobilised, and get that investment and support into Ukraine.
Tulip Siddiq
Lab
Hampstead and Highgate
Question
A constituent, a refugee from Ukraine facing visa extension issues preventing her from securing employment and accommodation, is at risk of homelessness in the coming weeks. Given that she recognises the Foreign Secretary's role, what conversations has she had with Home Office colleagues to review and expedite the Ukrainian visa scheme?
Minister reply
The Government have set out provisions for extending visas but are aware of concerns regarding timing mechanisms within the Home Office system. She will raise this issue with the Home Secretary.
Honiton and Sidmouth
Question
Following Speaker Stefanchuk’s visit to Parliament, is there a plan to work with the US and other allies on a comprehensive sanctions package targeting Russian oligarchs’ finances instead of gradually introducing new sanctions?
Minister reply
The UK continues discussions with the US and Europe for stronger economic pressure. While they want rapid implementation of new sanctions as evidence becomes available, waiting is not an option.
John Slinger
Lab
Rugby
Question
Given Russia’s illegal invasion targeting civilians and infrastructure, including hospitals, does the Foreign Secretary agree that these horrors should strengthen resolve in supporting Ukraine?
Minister reply
The UK will continue to support Ukraine with the resilience shown by its people facing relentless attacks.
Julian Lewis
Con
New Forest East
Question
How has the President of the United States' view on the situation changed from earlier statements, and is there evidence that he now sees Russia’s leader as a threat requiring urgent action?
Minister reply
Discussions with US regarding NATO allies’ ability to purchase military equipment for Ukraine have been ongoing. There is growing frustration internationally about Putin's disregard for peace negotiations.
Derek Twigg
Lab
Widnes and Halewood
Question
What progress has been made on unfreezing Russian assets to fund the Ukrainian industrial capacity for producing necessary military equipment, including deep-fire missiles and drone munitions?
Minister reply
Work is being done towards using Russian sovereign assets more effectively. The UK’s support this year includes £4.5 billion of military aid.
Stephen Gethins
SNP
Arbroath and Broughty Ferry
Question
As a fresh set of eyes in the role, will she look at the efficiency of some aid measures, such as working more closely with organisations like Come Back Alive foundation?
Minister reply
The UK aims to ensure aid is provided effectively and collaboratively with Ukraine’s needs.
Harpreet Uppal
Lab
Huddersfield
Question
How are the Government helping Ukrainian homes stay warm over winter, and will she join in paying tribute to Huddersfield’s support for Ukrainian arrivals since the conflict began?
Minister reply
A £42 million energy support package has been announced to assist with home heating during winter. She welcomed the community support provided by her constituency.
Bernard Jenkin
Con
Harwich and North Essex
Question
Given Russia’s stockpile of 155 mm shells, how long does Ukraine have to hold out against a mobilised Russian economy on war footing, and do we need to increase our military support to help Ukraine finish the war?
Minister reply
The UK has provided £4.5 billion in military aid but needs international allies to escalate their support. Both economic and defence pressures are crucial.
Luke Myer
Lab
Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland
Question
To increase economic pressure on Russia, will the Foreign Secretary sanction Russian-linked companies operating in third countries, including the energy sector?
Minister reply
Maximum pressure is being applied to such entities even when they operate outside Russia.
Epsom and Ewell
Question
I have just returned from Ukraine where I learned about the challenges faced by military and emergency services in dealing with unexploded ordnance; there are over 60,000 amputees in Ukraine as a result of the war. Will the Secretary of State consider further strengthening UK-Ukraine trauma recovery and strategic health alliance with additional funding to the £1.2 million already pledged?
Minister reply
Alongside our allies, we will continue to look at different forms and ways in which our support can be provided. We particularly highlight support for energy infrastructure and homes. The need is immense and we should pay tribute to the bravery of emergency services.
Southend West and Leigh
Question
All those who have visited Ukraine will know the stoicism of the people despite being bombarded night after night. They rebuild with support from UK businesses, individuals, and others across Europe. Does the Foreign Secretary agree that we must encourage more businesses and individuals to support Ukraine?
Minister reply
I agree that ultimately Putin is responsible for paying for the damage he causes through unprovoked aggression of his invasion of Ukraine. We continue to support Ukraine and encourage everyone else to do so.
Lisa Smart
LD
Hazel Grove
Question
I welcome many measures outlined today, having visited Ukraine where I saw the impact of attacks from Putin and his flunkies, highlighting the resilience of Ukrainian people. Will the Foreign Secretary confirm whether UK Government would support pursuing legally those responsible for crimes through International Criminal Court?
Minister reply
We continue to support international law and court processes; Russia needs to be held accountable for its actions. I agree that Putin must pay the price.
Mark Sewards
Lab
Leeds South West and Morley
Question
Politicians, civilians, and soldiers in Kyiv were unambiguous when asked what UK could do to help them win the war. The hundreds of billions of dollars of frozen Russian assets that they cannot deploy could bolster their military and swing the war decisively in their favour. Will the Foreign Secretary use every power available to her to unlock those assets?
Minister reply
I welcome my hon Friend’s support for unlocking Russian sovereign assets; the Chancellor is raising this issue in Washington with international partners.
Jim Shannon
DUP
Strangford
Question
Welcoming the right hon Lady to her place and thanking her for previous role experience. Putin will watch carefully the Israel-Gaza problem, knowing all eyes are turning towards Russia to end unnecessary conflict in Ukraine. What further steps can we take in co-operation with our American allies to seize this opportunity?
Minister reply
I agree that there must be no other option for Putin than to cease aggression; ultimately about hope for Ukrainian children.
Joe Powell
Lab
Kensington and Bayswater
Question
Strongly welcome the sanctions targeting $108 billion in oil revenue that the Kremlin received last year and progress on $350 billion in frozen Russian sovereign assets. Applaud Foreign Secretary’s efforts building coalition with EU to move from using interest payments to capital. Does she agree this recent breakthrough shows legally money should be treated as downpayment for reparations?
Minister reply
My hon Friend makes an important point; the EU has set out work linking issues around assets to reparation payments.
Dorking and Horley
Question
Welcoming Government’s progress on frozen Russian assets but disappointing that allocated only to recovery not military capability, because Russia is spending $40 billion more than Ukraine and her Western allies. The courage of Ukrainian forces has brought Russia to a standstill; does the Foreign Secretary agree if those frozen assets were used today to close exceed military spending gap, Ukraine would have path to win?
Minister reply
We are already increasing UK military support, and we want to see that happen across the board. A mix of different measures needs to happen at once to have significant impact on way Putin is behaving.
Laurence Turner
Lab
Birmingham Northfield
Question
Thank Foreign Secretary for her statement and decision as Home Secretary about Ukraine permission extension scheme; when Putin probes weakness we must respond by demonstrating strength. Agree that post-war development of significant energy resources in Ukraine may require British technical expertise to reconstruct shattered economy, increase Europe’s security of energy supply?
Minister reply
I agree that Ukraine’s security is Europe’s security in many different ways including defence and energy; continue to support Ukraine and Ukrainians in UK who came for safety at beginning of war.
Winchester
Question
Joined organisation Mighty Convoy to drive refurbished ambulances full of medical supplies to Ukraine this year. Also met FIRE AID that takes fire engines to Ukraine from UK; vital equipment for war effort but also morale boost when British public is behind their efforts. Will Foreign Secretary join me in thanking all volunteers?
Minister reply
The hon Member makes important point about strength of support from across country, communities and civil society. At time Ukrainians show resilience and strength, it is important they hear about support; welcome work of different organisations to raise funds and provide support.
Newton Abbot
Question
Thank Foreign Secretary for extending Homes for Ukraine scheme by two years in previous role. Russian manufacturers are using advanced electronics from white goods to build drones; what will the Foreign Secretary do prevent such vital equipment going to them through export of seemingly harmless white goods?
Minister reply
The hon Member is right to raise issues about broader technology; need to ensure sanctions regime is continually updating and responding.
Shadow Comment
Priti Patel
Shadow Comment
I welcome the Foreign Secretary to her new role but express concern about the ongoing situation in Ukraine, including recent strikes against Kyiv. While acknowledging the UK’s support for Ukraine, I question the effectiveness and timing of the sanctions announced today. We must ensure that these measures do not inadvertently harm our own economy or allies who rely on Russian oil and gas. The shadow government will continue to monitor the situation closely and work towards a peaceful resolution.
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