Former Energy Minister Grant Shapps Becomes UK's New Defence Minister, Raises Questions on Lack of Military Experience
Former energy minister, Grant Shapps, appointed as the new defence minister for the UK, raising concerns about lack of military experience but praised for his communication skills and commitment to supporting Ukraine. Ben Wallace resigns after four years in the role, emphasizing the importance of not compromising national security.
Grant Shapps, the former energy minister, has been appointed as the new defence minister for the UK, replacing Ben Wallace. The unexpected move has raised questions about Shapps' lack of military experience, but it is believed that his talent for media communication will be an asset in the upcoming national election. Shapps has expressed his commitment to working with the armed forces and continuing the UK's support for Ukraine in its fight against Russia's invasion. As a key defence supplier for Ukraine, Britain is aiming to increase its production of weaponry to assist Kyiv.
A couple of Tory backbenchers not happy with Grant Shapps being appointed Defense Secretary.
— Haggis_UK 🇬🇧 🇪🇺 (@Haggis_UK) August 31, 2023
Sam Coates: "This man doesn't get across detail & only cares about photos & gimmicky press releases... what a wasted opportunity"
"He sold encyclopedias. It's a joke given we're at war" pic.twitter.com/tiG89dWQoJ
However, Moscow has criticized this military help, viewing it as prolonging the conflict. Some Conservative Party lawmakers have expressed surprise at Shapps' appointment, questioning his familiarity with military affairs. Nevertheless, Shapps has proven himself as a capable minister in various government departments and has shown a strong commitment to crisis communication. Ben Wallace, who served as defence minister for four years and played a crucial role in the UK's response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, confirmed his resignation in a letter to Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.
In his resignation letter, he emphasized the importance of not considering defence as a discretionary spend and warned against making cuts that would compromise national security. Wallace's departure saddened many within the Conservative Party, but it is unlikely to alter the UK's support for Ukraine. Prime Minister Sunak praised Wallace's dedication and acknowledged his desire to step down after eight years of demanding ministerial duties. Wallace, a former captain in the British army, has been an ardent supporter of Ukraine's fight against Russian aggression.
His recent comments at a NATO summit sparked controversy, as he called for Ukraine to show gratitude to its allies and emphasized that the relationship with Kyiv is a partnership rather than a transaction. Ukraine's Defence Minister Oleksiy Reznikov expressed his gratitude to Wallace for his dedication and influence in rallying other countries to assist Ukraine.
