Ukraine Protection of Territorial Integrity 2022-03-28
2022-03-28
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Direct Answer
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Context
The question arises from the ongoing need to support Ukraine's defence against Russian aggression. It seeks specifics on the UK government's actions.
What steps his Department is taking to help protect the territorial integrity of Ukraine. Defence continues its role in supporting Ukraine, providing military aid and coordinating with allies for additional support.
Defence continues to play a central role in helping Ukraine defend its territorial integrity, working with allies and partners to uphold international law. We provide lethal and non-lethal military aid to meet the Ukrainian armed forces' requests for assistance and coordinate additional support from allies and partners.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The question addresses the UK's strategic anticipation and preparedness for a prolonged conflict in Ukraine, questioning initial assumptions about the nature of Russian aggression.
Why did the UK Government anticipate a quick lightning strike on Kyiv followed by regime change rather than military resource allocation for a protracted ground war crisis? The MP seeks to understand the basis for this strategic anticipation and any lessons learned.
UK Government anticipated events based on intelligence services' understanding of threats; alliances with other intelligence agencies helped. The decision to provide available NATO-standard weapons systems was correct given no prior transition to NATO-calibre systems.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific reasons behind the initial assumptions and whether the right military resources were allocated early in the conflict are not fully addressed.
Working With Partners
Intelligence Services Understanding
Response accuracy