Plymouth MP condemns Putin and calls on “Janner spirit” to support Ukrainian humanitarian charities

Luke Pollard, Member of Parliament for Plymouth Sutton and Devonport, has condemned Vladimir Putin’s invasion of Ukraine as a “dark day for peace”, encouraging people in Plymouth to donate to a charities to support the humanitarian crisis if they can.  

The United Nations Refugee Agency says that more than 100,000 Ukrainians have already been forced to flee their homes since Russia invaded Ukraine on 24 February, with residential buildings, power stations and children’s play-centres already the target of military bombing.  

There are a number of charity organisations providing vital humanitarian support in the country, Luke recommends the British Red Cross’s Ukraine Appeal, the United Nations’ Ukraine Humanitarian Fund, and Save the Children’s Ukraine Crisis Fund. These organisations are distributing essential humanitarian aid, providing food and shelter, and supporting children to overcome the psychological trauma of war.
 

Mr Pollard added that Plymouth has a long and dignified history of supporting those in need, from participating in the Kindertransport of Jewish children from Europe during the Second World War, to welcoming those who escaped the Taliban takeover in Afghanistan this summer.  

Mr Pollard said:  

“Putin’s attack on the Ukrainian people is an attack on democracy, and a dark day for peace and security in Europe. I stand with Ukraine and know our city does too.
 

“I welcome the government’s sanctions against the Kremlin, but stronger sanctions and support is needed. Sanctions must target Russia’s financial system and Oligarchs who have amassed great welfare by defrauding the Russian people.  There must be no hiding place for Putin’s dirty money in Britain. While backing Ukraine with more military support and reinforcing our allies, we must also send urgent support to those fleeing the invasion.

“Generosity is part of the Janner spirit. Of course, not everyone can afford to donate to charity at the moment. But, to those who can, I would invite you to join me in doing so and supporting the people of Ukraine.”