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More than two years since Putin’s illegal invasion of Ukraine, the unwavering solidarity from the people of Southend East and Rochford, Essex and the UK remains as important as ever. Our thoughts continue to be with the Ukrainian people as we hear horrifying stories of Ukrainian cities being bombed, civilians raped, and children abducted to Russia.
This year is critical for the Ukrainian people. As they watch elections around the world I am pleased that they know that, as Keir Starmer pledged when he met President Zelensky in Kyiv, “There could be a change in Government this year, but there will be no change in Britain’s resolve to stand with Ukraine, confront Russian aggression and pursue Putin for his war crimes”.
The unprovoked attack on an independent, sovereign nation like Ukraine shows that the defence of the country is not for them alone but also of the UK and of our friends and allies around the world who are under threat from Putin and other regimes like Iran and North Korea.
I stand in support of Ukrainians who are fighting with such strength and determination, heroically defending themselves from Putin’s brutal invasion. With Russia rapidly rearming, and its economy on a wartime footing, the UK and our allies must provide the support Ukraine needs, for as long as it takes for them to win in their courageous fight for freedom and self-determination.
Keir’s changed Labour Party has shown its unshakable commitment to NATO, a change that I wholeheartedly welcome. Under Keir’s leadership, Labour have welcomed the expansion of NATO to include Sweden and Finland, have called for a clear path for Ukraine’s NATO membership and we will continue to support the Government and NATO allies in providing military, economic, diplomatic, and humanitarian assistance to Ukraine.
As a committee member of Labour Friends of The Forces, I will always stand up for our armed forces and our veterans. I spent 11 years with the Parachute Regiment reserves, travelling the world and working in high tempo environments. As a reconnaissance soldier and recruit instructor, I trained and prepared soldiers for active service around the world and I am immensely proud of the training our Armed Forces have delivered for Ukrainian forces and the heroism they continue to show in defending the country.
Here in Southend East and Rochford, I know how moved we have been by these terrible events. But we should be proud of the way we have come out together in support of Ukraine and of the welcome we have given Ukrainian refugees, fleeing their homes. I am proud that our city has welcomed Ukrainian guests from Melitopol City Council and Mariupol City Council and that all of Southend’s political parties have pledged their support.
As Ukraine faces a huge and continuing onslaught, it is vital that we continue to stand with the people of Ukraine. If I have the privilege of being elected as Southend East and Rochford’s Labour MP, I will remain totally continued in my support for Ukraine and the people of Ukraine in Parliament.
