On Tuesday First Minister John Swinney pledged the support of The Scottish Government to “securing international solidarity” for the long-term future of an independent Ukraine.
Addressing The Scottish Parliament, Mr Swinney condemned Russia’s illegal, full-scale invasion and the subsequent three years of “barbaric” aggression that have followed, while commending Ukraine’s people for their fight to defend the independence, territorial integrity and security of their country.
Mr Swinney said that providing support and sanctuary for displaced Ukrainians continues to be a priority for The Scottish Government.
He warned that by pausing military aid “can only run the risk of emboldening Russia”, stressing that the United States must remain “steadfast” in its backing of Ukraine alongside the UK Government, European allies and partners in the western world. He also accepted the case for peacekeeping forces to avert further conflict, subject to proper democratic scrutiny.
The First Minister said: “Right now, today, as we stand here, men, women and children in Ukraine are putting their lives and their freedom on the line to defend their country and all of our democracies.
“My hope is that US and European leaders can once again find a way to speak with one voice on the matter of this conflict. There are no grey areas when one country chooses to send troops and tanks into the peaceful territory of another.
“My Government supports the approach of the United Kingdom Government, in committing to secure international solidarity in support of Ukraine’s long-term future. My Government remains committed to supporting Ukraine, until a just peace is secured – not a peace at any cost, which strips Ukraine of her sovereignty in wartime.
“Scotland’s approach, internationally, will continue to be led and guided by our compassion for Ukraine. Now, 25 years into the life of this modern Parliament, Scotland chooses to stand for democracy, for human rights and the rule of law, at home and among our courageous allies like Ukraine.
“These are the underpinnings of democracy, of prosperity, and of every freedom democracy provides. This is the solidarity among allies that will deliver Ukraine from Russia’s barbaric aggression, while protecting her heritage, her culture, and her social and economic future.
“Ukraine’s future, and her fate, is our future and our fate.”
Scottish Liberal Democrats
Alex Cole-Hamilton MSP, Leader of the Scottish Liberal Democrats, said: “President Zelensky and the people of Ukraine are heroes. They deserve sovereignty a fair and lasting peace, and the steadfast support of the entire world.
“What we witnessed in the Oval Office on Friday was appalling. In a premeditated act of thuggery, Vice President Vance and President Trump tried to humiliate one of the bravest leaders of our time, on the international stge
“It feels America could be on verge of the betrayal of Ukraine. But asking the King to withdraw the offer of a state visit, would throw away the most significant leverage we may have to influence Trump’s thinking on Ukraine and America’s place in the Western Alliance.
“So I welcome the apparent movement of First Minister on this today, as uncomfortable as that may be for many of us.
“With the withdrawal of US aid overnight, does the First Minister agree with Liberal Democrat calls to seize the tens of billions of pounds worth of frozen Russian assets in the UK and use them to support Ukraine’s fight for survival?”
Founding Editor of The Edinburgh Reporter.
Edinburgh-born multimedia journalist and iPhoneographer.
