Shapps Becomes U.K. Defense Minister With Vow To Maintain Support For Ukraine

Britain's newly appointed Defense Secretary Grant Shapps leaves No. 10 Downing Street in London on August 31.

Former Energy Minister Grant Shapps replaced Ben Wallace on August 31 as Britain's defense minister, a surprise move that reaffirmed London's support for Ukraine while raising questions over his lack of experience of the military. "I am looking forward to working with the brave men and women of our Armed Forces who defend our nation's security. And continuing the UK's support for Ukraine in their fight against Putin's barbaric invasion," Shapps said on X, formerly known as Twitter, after his appointment was announced by the government following the resignation of Ben Wallace. To read the original Reuters story, click here.