Exeter considers suspending links with Russian twin town
A motion will be discussed at a meeting next week
Exeter City Council says it's going to consider suspending relations with its Russian twin town following the invasion.
Exeter's been twinned with Yaroslavl since 1990.
In a statement of solidarity with Ukraine, council leader Phil Bialyk said, "I am proud of my Ukrainian heritage and so you will not be surprised to hear that I have watched the unfolding news of the Russian government’s invasion with horror.
“I cannot stand quietly by and do nothing and so I wish to raise an urgent item for consideration at this evening’s meeting relating to the City’s on-going relationship with its Russian twinned city of Yaroslavl.
“I have thought long and hard about this, particularly bearing in mind the friendship and good relationships we have enjoyed with the people in Yaroslavl. However, I cannot condone the actions of the Russian Government.”
Cllr Bialyk has also written to the Ukrainian ambassador to the UK to show his support, as well as the Home Secretary to urge a review of the criteria for accepting refugees.
His motion will be discussed at a council meeting on the 10th of March.
A rally in support of Ukraine organised by Cllr Bialyk took place in Princesshay on Sunday, which was attended by hundreds of people.