Ukrainian in Luton speaks of concern for family & friends
We've been speaking to the Association of Ukrainians in Luton
Last updated 23rd Feb 2022
A Ukrainian living in Luton tells us his compatriots in the UK are staying "united" and "alert", after Russia ordered troops to deploy to two breakaway regions in Eastern Ukraine
Yesterday, the upper house of Russia's parliament gave its backing for the president to deploy forces abroad.
The Kremlin’s recognised 2 Ukrainian regions as independent states and sent – what it described as – peace-keeping troops in.
In response, the UK and EU have announced new sanctions on Russia.
Vladimir Putin's called for the "demilitarisation" of Ukraine to end the current crisis – demanding western nations stop arming Kiev.
But Mykola Derevinskyy, from the Association of Ukrainians in Luton, is hopeful the UK and Nato continue to support his country
"I know a lot of my friends who've had to leave their houses in the Eastern part of Ukraine, and move to different parts of Ukraine or even immigrate to the UK and different European countries"
"Putin has no intention of stopping his attempt to recreate the Soviet Union.
Mr Derevinskyy hopes the UK "puts in place, jointly with NATO partners, a package providing Ukraine with increased defensive military support in the event of further incursions of Russian forces into Ukraine sovereign territory"
"Ukranian communities in Luton and surrounding areas are staying united, alert and we have very good communication and keep supporting each other all the time."
He also told us that "all Ukrainian communities in the UK have come together and launched an appeal called 'Help Ukraine''"
"This is fundraising and we are trying to get as much money as possible sent to Ukraine in preparedness for the worst case scenario"
You can contribute to the fundraising appeal here - they've so far raised over £25,000 across the country.
Meanwhile, the head of NATO says member states are prepared to act against aggression – with more than 100 jets on high alert.
Germany's stopped the progression of the Nord Stream 2 pipe line to bring gas from Russia to Europe.
While Boris Johnson’s also called for the Champions League final not to be held in St Petersburg, saying there should be "no chance" of Russia hosting major football tournaments.