Meeting of the Parliament 19 March 2026 [Draft]
I thank Kenny Gibson for securing the debate. This is likely to be my last speech in this place.
Last month marked four years since Putin’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. What was originally dismissed by the Kremlin as a three-day march on Kyiv has instead become a historic example of human endurance. For four years, the Ukrainian people have stood unyielding, proving that the pursuit of self-determination cannot be crushed by imperial aspirations. We must be clear that that resilience has come at a staggering, heartbreaking cost. Casualties on both sides are estimated at 2 million dead and wounded.
Despite the grief, Ukraine is no longer seen simply as a recipient of aid. It has emerged as a vital security partner and, as it has reclaimed territory, it has reshaped the future of modern defence through innovation and sheer grit.
The spirit of defiance is not just felt on the front lines; it vibrates through every corner of the world where Ukrainians have found a temporary home. In Aberdeen, that spirit is stronger than ever. Through organisations such as the Ukrainian Hub Aberdeen and student societies, displacement has been transformed into a powerful force for advocacy. From the solemn vigils at Marischal Square to the Sunday schools preserving the Ukrainian language for a new generation, the diaspora in the north-east is ensuring that the struggle for freedom remains at the very heart of our community’s consciousness.
I am proud of my city of Aberdeen for its efforts in rallying around and helping our Ukrainian friends and neighbours in their time of need, and I am proud of my native city for so many other reasons. It has been an honour to serve the people of Aberdeen in one way, shape or form for 27 years—13 years on Aberdeen City Council and 15 years in this Parliament. It was a privilege to serve as a minister for seven of my years here and to help shape our country and make it a better place to live in—a task that would be much easier if we had the full powers of independence.
I thank all the people of Aberdeen who voted for me over the years, my family for putting up with the stresses and strains that elected office brings, and all the staff who have worked for me over the years. I offer a special thanks to my current head of office, Logan Unwin, and to Doug Daniel, Blair Fulton and David McNay. An MSP is nothing if they do not have good staff to help them serve the people. Serving the people is what the Parliament should be about but, unfortunately, it seems that some folk have forgotten that. That has to change so that the Parliament can truly meet the needs and aspirations of the people of Scotland.
My final words are freedom for Scotland and slava Ukraini.