IT is now two months since Russia invaded Ukraine and it was an opportune moment for my boss, the Defence Secretary, to update MPs in parliament this week.

Ben Wallace told the House of Commons it is estimated that 15,000 Russian personnel have been killed during their offensive.

In addition, more than 2,000 armoured vehicles have been destroyed or captured.

In the air, Russia has also lost more than 60 helicopters and fighter jets. Its flagship cruiser, the Moskva, has also been sunk in the Black Sea.

Russia used approximately 65 per cent of its entire ground combat strength in the invasion. Current British assessments think about 25 per cent has been rendered not combat-effective.

He said Russia has so far failed in nearly every one of its objectives. It has pulled away from Kyiv and is now concentrating in the east of Ukraine in an attempt to secure the Donetsk and Luhansk regions.

He then said this: “Ukraine is an inspiration to us all. Its brave people have never stopped fighting for their lands. They have endured indiscriminate bombardment, war crimes and overwhelming military aggression, but they have stood firm, galvanised the international community, and beaten back the army of Russia.”

I couldn’t agree more.

But the secretary of state was also clear that this war will go on for some time and we will need to continue to support Ukraine militarily.

To date we have provided more than 5,000 anti-tank missiles, five air defence systems, 1,360 anti-structure munitions, Starstreak anti-air missiles and 4.5 tonnes of plastic explosive.

A further £100 million-worth of high-grade military equipment comprising 120 armoured vehicles, anti-ship missile systems, and high-tech precision strike munitions have also been pledged. Non-lethal aid is also going to the country in the shape of ration packs, clothing and medical equipment.

The secretary of state then added that the next three weeks will be key. Ukraine needs more long-range artillery and ammunition and anti-ship missiles to counter Russian ships bombarding Ukrainian cities. He explained the UK will continue to help Ukraine to find this equipment along with our NATO allies.

I tell you all this because we must be prepared for a long war. It is starting to affect us but the overarching commitment we have made and must stick is this: Putin must not prevail, whatever the cost and inconvenience to us. And that cost and inconvenience is nothing to what is happening to those brave people in Ukraine.

The local elections are coming up on May 5 and I would like to wish all candidates the very best, whatever their political affiliation. Local councillors do an important job and are committed to their communities. Please cast your vote.