Meeting of the Parliament 26 February 2026 [Draft]
It is four years since the Russian invasion of Ukraine. I remember when we first spoke in Parliament, just days after the invasion began, and I believe that, in our hearts, we all hoped that it would end positively for the people of Ukraine within months. However, that tragedy has now continued for four years. Countless lives have been lost and the people of Ukraine are living in absolute horror.
It is clear where the blame lies: with the despotic regime in Russia and with the war criminal Vladimir Putin. I cannot wait for the day when he is put in front of the court in The Hague and made to pay for his horrendous war crimes.
Yesterday, I had the honour of speaking with the consul general of Ukraine and passing on my thoughts and love, not only for his family but for all Ukrainian families, be they here, in Scotland, or back in their homes in Ukraine. I made a commitment—one that I know is shared by everyone in the chamber—that we will always stand by the people of Ukraine, that they have our resolute support, and that we will not rest until they can live in the democracy, peace, justice and freedom that they deserve. [Applause.]