On the fourth anniversary of the illegal invasion of Ukraine by Russia, First Minister John Swinney has reaffirmed the Scottish Government’s solidarity with Ukraine.
The First Minister said: “Russia’s illegal war against Ukraine has caused unimaginable destruction and devastation. The Scottish Government resolutely condemn the invasion and the atrocities that it has caused, as we have done since the start of the war.
“Scotland stands firmly for democracy, human rights and the rule of law at home and around the world. We will support an international peace plan if one emerges that respects Ukrainian sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity. Any peace plan must be agreed with Ukraine.
“Scotland is proud to have offered a place of sanctuary to more than 29,000 people since the war began, the majority of them through our Super Sponsor scheme. Many of those who arrived after the war outbreak have started to rebuild their lives in Scotland and play a valuable role in communities, schools and workplaces.
“As we mark four years of this horrific conflict, we are continuing to support displaced people to settle into life here, including helping them access longer-term housing and encouraging timely applications to the Ukraine Permission Extension Scheme.
“My message to Ukrainians around the world today is clear: Scotland stands in unwavering solidarity with you, and we will do all we can to support a peaceful future for Ukraine as an independent, sovereign nation.”
