First Minister statement on Ukraine invasion expected

Senedd Members will be gathering this afternoon to discuss Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine.

First Minister's questions precede the rest of the afternoon's business in Plenary.

Llywydd of the Senedd, Elin Jones said this St David's Day Plenary would be international in its outlook:

“Today is a key milestone for us. For the first time in almost two years, all 60 Members can attend the Siambr again. As we enter a new phase in our Parliament’s history, it is fitting that this St David’s Day, we pause and reflect on international events and how important our democratic structures are and how fragile they can be.

“Our thoughts inevitably turn to Ukraine and its heroic citizens who are enduring unimaginable hardships whilst fighting to protect and maintain their sovereign nation, their proud democracy and way of life. We think of the numerous historic and cultural links which Wales shares with Ukraine and of the respected Ukrainian community who have made Wales their home.

“Once again this evening, the Senedd will be lit in the blue and yellow colours of Ukraine’s flag as a sign of our solidarity with them. Ukraine and its people very much remain in our hearts.

“On this St David’s day, let us cherish what we have and reach out to others who need our support and love.”

Protest - in pictures

Last night a protest was attended by hundreds of people in Cardiff Bay, condemning the invasion by Putin, and calling for the UK Government to open its doors to more refugees.

Aid for Ukraine

Elsewhere in Wales, the aid effort to help women and children fleeing the chaos in Ukraine is intensifying.

Many organisations across Wales are acting as collection points linking up with the Red Cross and official haulier organisations to transport items to Poland.

Street Art

And a street artist has created a mural of a weeping eye in the colours of the Ukrainian flag to show his support for the people of the war-torn country.

MyDogSighs, from Southsea, Hampshire, is known for his realistic eye murals and other graffiti works.

And now he has created his new artwork in Northcote Lane, Cardiff, using the eye motif to express his feelings over the ongoing conflict in eastern Europe.