Last week marked the third anniversary of Putin’s brutal and full-scale illegal invasion of Ukraine. This act of aggression was an attack on democracy, sovereignty, and international law. Scotland has always stood in solidarity with the people of Ukraine since the conflict began – and our solidarity remains unwavering.
The Ukrainian people have endured unthinkable suffering. President Zelensky has shared that some 43,000 Ukrainian soldiers have been killed since 2022. Ukraine’s continued brave resistance against the unprovoked and illegal aggression of the Russian regime is truly admirable.
Given notable events in recent days at the White House, it is more important than ever to reaffirm our unconditional support for Ukraine and her independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. President Zelensky’s strong leadership and courage in the face of the tyranny of Putin’s regime is commendable.
The Scottish Government has done everything in our power to support our Ukrainian allies. Since the invasion began, more than 21,000 Ukrainians have arrived in Scotland has part of our sponsorship scheme. These figures show that Scotland hosts about 2.5 times more Ukrainians per capita than England.
I am also proud that the Scottish Government has provided £65 million of funding as part of the UK military aid for Ukraine. This makes up part of the £1 billion being offered for state-of-the-art equipment including sophisticated air defence systems and thousands of pieces of vital kit for Ukrainian soldiers. This followed £4 million in financial aid allocated by the Scottish Government for Ukraine’s humanitarian assistance, and a further £3 million worth of medical supplies.
In addition to this, providing safe and secure housing has also been a priority, with £50 million for the Ukrainian Longer-Term Resettlement Fund. This has helped to bring 1168 empty homes back into use for displaced Ukrainians. We have also provided £22.887 million to local authorities for long-term housing solutions. I am very proud that here Mid Fife and Glenrothes, we have welcomed hundreds of Ukrainian refugees.
I am also pleased that the Scottish Government has been providing free tuition to Ukrainian students arriving in Scotland to ensure that they can continue with their studies despite the war. Here in Mid Fife & Glenrothes, Fife College has provided support to Ukrainian refugees through providing education and support in our community. I have also met with members of the Ukrainian community in recent years who sought refuge in Glenrothes and have seen first hand the valuable contribution they have made to our community since arriving.
Ukraine’s sovereignty must be absolute, and Scotland will always advocate for the right to independence, self-determination, and territorial integrity. Failing to do so completely undermines the future of European democracy and security.
On the third anniversary of Russia’s invasion, my thoughts are with the Ukrainian people – those who have lost their lives, those who continue to fight, and those who have been forced to flee their homes. Scotland stands with Ukraine. Our support is not temporary; it is a lasting commitment to democracy, stability, and peace in Europe.
