Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether the description of Russia’s actions as being short of war by officials in his Department reflects a political or a military analysis.

Russia is conducting a campaign of hybrid attacks and sabotage across Europe. Russia is constantly probing and testing us, including through military posturing.

We are not at war with Russia, nor do we seek confrontation but with an increase in threats the UK will increase its warfighting readiness and meet its NATO commitments. The government is also acting against threats on our own shores.

Russia should be in no doubt that we are ready to defend every inch of NATO territory and will not be deterred in our unwavering support for Ukraine.