Dominic Cummings has been blasted for saying he can 'enthusiastically' get behind a former Tory MP joining the Ukrainian army because he is 'being hunted by drones'.
Jack Lopresti, MP for Filton and Bradley Stoke from 2010 to 2024, joined the Ukrainian military after losing his seat in the last election.
The former Deputy Chairman of the Conservative Party, who served in Afghanistan for the British Army, initially volunteered with the International Legion of the Defence Intelligence of Ukraine.
He has witnessed frontline action in the Donbas and argued 'Europe collectively really does need to step up. Increasing defence spending in three years’ time, that’ll be too late.'
Last week he revealed he was 'honoured' to join the Azov battalion.
He wrote: '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.'
He was congratulated on his efforts by Alistair Campbell, who wrote: 'Fair play Jack Lopresti. Former Tory MP, lost his seat at last election, has since joined Ukrainian Army.'
But Cummings, who served as Boris Johnson's Chief Advisor from 2019 to 2020, was less complimentary.
Jack Lopresti, MP for Filton and Bradley Stoke from 2010 to 2024, pictured with Alistair Campbell
Dominic Cummings has been blasted for joking about a former Tory MP being hunted by drones'
Resharing a picture of Mr Campbell alongside Mr Lopresti in full military gear, he wrote: 'FINALLY a development on Ukraine I can really get enthusiastic about.'
Resharing a picture of Mr Campbell alongside Mr Lopresti in full military gear, he wrote: 'Tory MPs joining the neo-Nazi Azov to be hunted by drones - FINALLY a development on Ukraine I can really get enthusiastic about.'
Cummings quickly faced condemnation for his 'disgusting' views on Ukraine.
One person wrote: 'You’re right about a lot of things Dom but dead wrong on Ukraine and China.'
Another added: 'You're really off the deep end on this topic. I don't get it.'
A third said: 'Not your best tweet to say the least.'
While others praised Mr Lopresti's 'bravery' for serving during the war.
Mr Lopresti was a Conservative MP for 14 years, serving under five Prime Ministers.
He was heavily defeated by Labour's Clare Hazelgrove in 2024.
Speaking about his service, Mr Lopresti said: 'It's a huge honour and an immense privilege for me to serve in the Ukrainian military and be able to help the gallant and amazing Ukrainian people in any way I can.'
He previously told the Kyiv Post he first visited Ukraine as part of a government delegation on the first anniversary of Russia's invasion in 2023.
Announcing he was joining the Azov unit, he added: 'Over the past year, I served with the Defence Intelligence of Ukraine.
'To have served in what I consider two of Ukraine’s finest military formations is one of the greatest honours of my life.
'Azov was formed in 2014 in response to Russia’s aggression. It began with volunteers, many without prior military experience, driven by conviction rather than obligation.
Cummings has faced condemnation for his 'disgusting' views on Ukraine, with others praising Mr Lopresti for his 'brave' service
'Over time, it evolved into a benchmark for modern warfare, defined by innovation, frontline medical care, relentless training and a clear focus on the motivated, well-prepared soldier as the decisive factor.
'In 2022, the defence of Mariupol showed the world exactly what Azov stands for: resistance under impossible conditions.
'Azov is built on principle, discipline and brotherhood. To be an Azov fighter is to hold yourself to the highest standard, to put the mission above self.
'At its core lies a simple truth: no glory without a fight.
'Today, the Ukrainian military is not only defending its own sovereignty, it is also the frontline guarantee of Europe’s security.
'What happens here will shape the future of the free world.
'Ukraine continues to resist. Ukraine stands firm. Together, we will prevail. SLAVA UKRAINI!'
Azov was formed in 2014 to fight Russian-backed forces in the Donbas War and has been heavily involved in Ukraine's war effort since Putin's invasion four years ago.
But it has faced criticism for its links to far-right extremist groups.
