A COUNCIL leader has expressed solidarity with those affected by the war in Ukraine and called for people to support groups and agencies who are providing aid in the area.

Despite resistance by the Ukrainian government, action by the international community and a global outcry, Russian president Vladimir Putin and his troops have not backed down.

The conflict has been going on for almost two weeks, with up to two million people fleeing as refugees to neighbouring countries.

Across Oxfordshire, people have been working together to collect donations of much needed medicine and clothing to send to Ukraine refugees.

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David Rouane, leader of South Oxfordshire District Council, said: “We all value those qualities of democracy, freedom and security which we in Britain take for granted. We stand by the people of Ukraine in the face of the invasion by Russia and our thoughts are with everyone affected by this action.

“It is difficult at this stage to predict exactly what may or may not unfold over the coming days and weeks, but we know that our community will want to do whatever they can to support our neighbours whose friends and families are directly affected by the conflict and those we see on our television screen.

“We will show our solidarity with those affected through the channels open to us as a council and we would urge those who want to help the aid effort to support the appeals issued by established international agencies who are already working in the area, and to be aware of local community groups who are supporting Ukrainian families here in the UK.”

Councillor Emily Smith, leader of Vale of White Horse District Council, also expressed her support for the Eastern European country.

The Government is advising people to give safely to registered charities.

Advice includes established charities with experience of responding to disasters, which are usually best placed to reach victims on the ground.

The best current route to donate and support is via the Disasters Emergencies Committee (DEC).

The UK Government has said it will match fund up to £20m. DEC works with 15 charities including Cowley-based Oxfam.

There are a number of other international charities that people can support, including the British Red Cross and UNHCR refugee agency.

For donations to causes working in Ukraine and neighbouring countries, the council advised to do research the charity before doing any financial donations.

As well as to check the charity’s name and registration number at gov.uk/checkcharity.

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