Anthony has returned from a parliamentary visit to Kiev on the first anniversary of the conflict in a show of support for the continued Ukrainian struggle.
Anthony joined a cross-party delegation of 12 MPs who reached the Ukrainian capital in secret on Thursday 23rd February. The MPs were met by local representatives, including the Chairman of the Ukrainian Parliament and the Ukrainian Parliament Commissioner for Human Rights. They also engaged in discussions with NGOs operating within the area and key figures in Ukraine’s industries, including energy companies.
The group visited Irbin, a city just 10km from the centre of Kiev and the closest point Russian forces came to the capital itself. Retaken at the end of March last year after the loss of more 300 civilians and 50 servicemen, the streets still show scars from the conflict. Anthony was taken to view residential buildings destroyed by the Russian advance and civilian vehicles bombed as they attempted to flee.
The delegation also took part in events marking the first anniversary of the war on February 24th, including leaving tributes at the Alley of Heroes of the Heavenly Hundred where a memorial has been created honouring the thousands killed during the conflict.
On his return, Anthony commented: “Walking those streets and meeting Ukrainians impacted by this terrible way was emotional, awe-inspiring, and powerful. The evidence of the ongoing conflict is something those in Kiev live with every day, and I was glad that Parliament could go and share that experience for even such a brief moment.”
“The visit was only possible because of the extraordinary Ukrainian resistance, and the appreciation showed for our support and presence from those we met was truly humbling. It’s important our support doesn’t end, and that we stick with Ukraine for the long haul. The UK and our allies need to support immediate reconstruction, as well as giving Ukraine the military support they need – ammunition, long range missiles, and planes.”