Jack Sargeant calls on Welsh and UK Governments to ‘redouble efforts’ to support the people of war torn Ukraine

When Russian President Vladimir Putin decided to send troops into Ukraine on February 24, 2022, he expected a quick and decisive victory.

However, a year later, the situation has turned into a long and draining war that is set to continue through 2023.

The Kremlin’s “special military operation” has not succeeded in its mission to depose the government in Kyiv, the conflict has killed tens of thousands and left massive damage in its wake.

Welsh and UK government officials have been urged by Senedd committee chairs, including Alyn and Deeside MS Jack Sargeant, to intensify their support for the people of Ukraine on the anniversary of Russia’s illegal invasion.

A year after the start of the Russia-Ukraine war, the UK Government and the Welsh Government continue to stand in solidarity with Ukraine.

Coordinated efforts have been made to support those affected by the ongoing conflict.

Wales, led by First Minister Mark Drakeford, has played a significant role in supporting Ukrainian refugees.

The Senedd has passed laws to provide free healthcare, council tax exemptions, and pet arrivals for Ukrainian arrivals.

In addition, Wales raised £5.3 million in the first 24 hours after the invasion, with £4 million from the Welsh Government.

“Solidarity throughout Europe is something we must reaffirm now more than ever,” said First Minister Mark Drakeford.

The Welsh Government has also become a “super sponsor” for Ukrainian refugees, providing initial support through a network of welcome centres.

“The UK Government and the Welsh Government are united in their support for Ukraine and remain steadfast in their commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity,” said a joint statement from the UK Government and the Welsh Government.

The war in Ukraine continues, but as President Zelensky said, “We know freedom will win. We know Russia will lose.”

In a joint statement, the Senedd Committee Chairs said:

“On the anniversary of Russia’s illegal invasion, Senedd committees stand in solidarity with Ukraine.”

“Over the last 12 months, we have watched in horror with the rest of the world as the tragedy of the ensuing war has unfolded.”

“Our thoughts are with the people of Ukraine, who continue to face unimaginable hardships.”

“Our hearts go out to those who have been forced to make the impossible choice between fleeing from their homes or staying to bear the brunt of the Russian invasion, in particular Ukraine’s women and children. “

Collectively, as Senedd committees, we have considered and raised issues related to support for Ukraine in our work since the invasion and will continue to do so.”

“We call on the Welsh and UK governments to redouble their efforts to support the people of Ukraine.”

Signed,

Jayne Bryant MS, Children, Young People and Education Committee Chair

Llyr Gruffydd MS, Climate Change, Environment, and Infrastructure Committee Chair

David Rees MS, Committee for the Scrutiny of the First Minister Chair

Delyth Jewell MS, Culture, Communications, Welsh Language, Sport, and International Relations Committee Chair

Darren Millar MS, Economy, Trade, and Rural Affairs Committee temporary Chair

Jenny Rathbone MS, Equality and Social Justice Committee Chair

Peredur Owen Griffiths MS, Finance Committee Chair

Russell George MS, Health and Social Care Committee Chair

Huw Irranca-Davies MS, Legislation, Justice and Constitution Committee Chair

John Griffiths MS, Local Government and Housing Committee Chair

Jack Sargeant MS, Petitions Committee Chair

Mark Isherwood MS, Public Accounts and Public Administration Committee Chair

Vikki Howells MS, Standards of Conduct Committee Chair