A few weeks ago we reached a grim milestone as the conflict between Russia and Ukraine reached its first year.
In some respects it is astonishing that the conflict has lasted this long. When we woke up to the news of the Russian invasion on 24th February 2022, it appeared that the Russians were advancing rapidly and there were fears that the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv, would fall quite rapidly. Whilst some Russian forces did reach the outskirts of the city, the heroic efforts of the Ukrainian defenders not only repelled them but also pushed them back.
Despite the Ukrainians exceeding expectations, we should not lose focus of the fight they still have on their hands, and it is important that countries across the globe who champion freedom, liberty and democracy stand strong and support Ukraine in its efforts. We were privileged to receive a visit from President Zelenskyy in Parliament last month, and it was an honour to stand alongside colleagues as he addressed us in Westminster Hall.
Although there are many issues that divide us in Parliament, across the spectrum we have all been broadly united on the need to support Ukraine and ensure that the barbaric aggression unleashed by President Putin does not succeed.
Amidst our admiration of Ukrainian heroism, it is important not to lose sight of the humanitarian impact of the war. Many innocent civilians have been killed, tortured or misplaced. Many cities and towns now lie in ruins. Energy infrastructure has been severely weakened and the economic impact on the country will take many years, if not decades, to fully recover.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of you who have responded to the appeals to support Ukrainian civilians whose lives were turned upside down last year. Whether that be through financial aid, donating clothing or essential items or signing up to take in a refugee, I believe our collective response to this crisis has shown the UK at its best.
This article first appeared in the Halesowen & Dudley News on 9th March 2023.
