MP COLUMN: The Russian aggression should not be allowed to succeed

Blyth Valley MP Ian Levy signing the Ukraine Solidarity Book.

The situation in Ukraine is deeply troubling and it is essential that we stand square and work with our European and NATO allies to exert all pressure on Russia to halt this act of aggression.

I have a great deal of respect and admiration for this independent sovereign nation which upholds democracy and western values.

Its Government, overwhelmingly endorsed by its people in the most recent elections, have made clear their determination to join the free nations of the Western World and in due course to become members of the EU and NATO.

As an independent sovereign state, they are fully entitled to do so. It is their success which so frightens President Putin whose declared ambition is to restore the power and borders of the Soviet Union.

I welcome the responsible supportive approach the vast majority of opposition MP’s have taken. We need to stand unified.

The Prime Minister has been clear that we will do what we can to assist refugees from Ukraine. The initial priority was to support British nationals and their dependants who are resident in Ukraine and wanted to get out.

Officials are working around the clock to process visa applications and we have multiple routes available for Ukrainians who are not dependants of British nationals. Staff have been sent to centres in nearby countries, including Poland, Moldova, Romania and Hungary, to help those who made it across the border.