We stand with Ukraine
As Liberal Democrats, we believe in internationalism, democracy, and the right of people to live without fear. Ukraininan President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s party is our sister party, and we are proud to stand alongside him and promote our shared values. Our party is pushing for the fiercest possible sanctions on the Russian Government. Lib Dem leader Ed Davey, who urged BP to pull out of Russian oil company Rosneft, is calling on all other British companies to follow suit.
Our priority is to help the Ukrainian people. The Lib Dems are asking the British Government to resettle Ukrainian refugees in the UK without preconditions. Anything less would be a failure of moral leadership and leave thousands at risk.
Reading has a proud history of standing up for victims of war and aggression overseas. We are sure that like us you are wondering how you can help. Many charities are working to provide emergency aid to Ukraine. They include:
- The British Red Cross Ukraine Crisis Appeal
- The British branch of the UN Refugee Agency's fund for Ukraine (part of the Disasters Emergency Committee that brings together 15 member charities)
Here in Reading the Ukrainian Community Centre (21, Sidmouth Street) has been so overwhelmed with donations of clothes and other goods that they have temporarily paused collections. They are open on Saturday the 5th of March to receive items that well-wishers have already collected, but encourage other supporters to make financial donations to the Red Cross and other funds instead. The RUCC regularly updates their Facebook page (Reading Ukrainian Community Centre) and website.
A well-attended vigil for peace in Ukraine was held between 18.00 and 19.00 on Friday 4th March at Queen Victoria’s statue outside the Old Town Hall in Reading, and it was heartening to be joined by so many Reading residents there. Vigils will be held at the same time and place every Friday for the foreseeable future.
Over the coming days and weeks, the Lib Dems will do everything in their power to pressure our Government to live up to the liberal values that characterise Britain at its best.