Sir Mike Penning MP comments on the situation in Ukraine and how to help Ukrainian people.

“I am appalled at Putin’s premeditated and wholly unprovoked attack on its neighbouring sovereign democratic state. My thoughts and prayers are with the Ukrainian people and President Zelensky, whose defiance, courage and patriotism in the face of Putin’s aggression is nothing less than inspiring.

“The UK has been supporting Ukraine's security and defence for a number of years, in fact, when I was a Defence Minister I signed off on UK military to train local troops in Ukraine. The UK has since trained over 22,000 members of the Ukrainian army through Operation ORBITAL. Also, since 2019, we have assisted Ukraine to build up and sustain a naval capability. In the months prior to the invasion, the UK provided extra support in the form of 2,000 anti-armour missiles, which the Ukrainians are now putting to good use. The UK has sent further military support since the invasion. More than 1,000 British troops have also been made ready to support NATO and allies in the unfolding humanitarian crisis. 

“With regard to visas for Ukrainian refugees, the Government was quick to implement measures to make it easier for British nationals or people settled in the UK to bring over their immediate Ukrainian family members. This, alone, will allow an additional 100,000 Ukrainians to seek sanctuary in the UK, with access to work and public services. The scheme has been extended again to include aunts and uncles, nephews, nieces, cousins and in-laws.

“The Government has further announced that it will create a humanitarian sponsorship scheme. This will enable anyone to support refugees and to sponsor those who do not have a family connection. This will allow them expedited entry to the UK. Those who come under this scheme will also be granted leave for an initial period of 12 months and they will be able to work and access public services. There will be no numerical limit on this scheme, and we will welcome as many Ukrainians as wish to come and have matched sponsors. I know many local people are keen to step up and help in any way they can. More information on how this scheme will be implemented is due to be released shortly.”

For latest updates visit the ‘UK visa support for Ukrainian nationals’ page on GOV.UK

To apply for a Ukraine Family Scheme visa

To donate to help the people of Ukraine, the easiest way is to donate money to the Disasters Emergency Committee

The Disasters Emergency Committee is a group of 15 leading UK aid charities, raising funds to quickly and effectively respond to overseas disasters.