Mayor of Rugby and Group Leaders statements on Ukraine

The Mayor of Rugby has sent a letter of support to Mayor Vitali Klitschko, Mayor of Kyiv, following Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

In it, Cllr Deepah Brojomohun-Roberts highlights Rugby's support of Ukraine as a sovereign, self-governing state and expresses a wish that the nation would experience peace soon.

Separately, Rugby Borough Council's Group Leaders have issued a joint statement expressing shock and condemnation of Russia's invasion, describing it as an attack on democracy and freedom. The statement has been sent to Ms Melinda Simmons, British Ambassador to Ukraine.

The flag of Ukraine is also now flying from Rugby's Town Hall, alongside the Union flag and flag of St George.

The Mayor's letter to Mayor Klitschko said:

"As Mayor and First Citizen of Rugby, on behalf of Rugby's residents, I wish to express Rugby's concern regarding the current situation between Ukraine and Russia, and share Rugby's solidarity with you and your people.

"Rugby is a proud, multi-racial and diverse town and home to people from many different countries, all of whom are part of our communities. Rugby supports Ukraine as a sovereign, self-governing state and hopes that the situation will be peacefully resolved soon.

"Our thoughts are with all those affected by the conflict and we must stand together with our Ukrainian friends at this desperate time.

"Cllr Deepah Brojomohun-Roberts, Mayor of Rugby."

The Statement from Group Leaders reads:

"We are shocked by the Russian invasion of Ukraine. We stand united in condemnation of this senseless war, which is an attack on democracy and freedom not just in Ukraine, but around the world. We stand in full solidarity with the democratically elected president, parliament and government of Ukraine and with the brave people of Ukraine who are now defending their homeland. Our thoughts are with all those killed, injured and displaced by this conflict, and with their families. The world is not free and safe without a free and independent Ukraine. Peace must prevail. Our thoughts are also with the people of Russia who too are victims of this conflict and intimidation.

"Cllr Seb Lowe, Leader of Rugby Borough Council and Leader of the Conservative Group
Cllr Jerry Roodhouse, Leader of the Opposition and Leader of the Liberal Democrat Group
Cllr Maggie O'Rourke, Leader of the Labour Group"

Residents who wish to support Ukrainians affected by the invasion can find details of local collections and charities on the ground and seeking support at www.rugby.gov.uk/Ukraine .