THE First Minister has said that Scotland will "always support" an independent Ukraine at a ceremony to mark the country's independence day, which takes place on Saturday.
At a ceremony outside Edinburgh's City Chambers on Friday, members of Scotland's Ukrainian community laid wreathes at the Stone of Remembrance in memory of those killed in Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
Speaking at the event, John Swinney stressed his support for “Ukrainian sovereignty and territorial integrity” as he hailed the country’s “unity” and “heroism in defending it”.
READ MORE: UK energy bills to rise by almost £150 this winter as Ofgem lifts price cap
He told members of the Ukrainian community: “Please know that my thoughts are with you – your friends, your families, your neighbours in Ukraine – today and every day.
“Those fighting on the front line, those who have given their lives defending the outcome of the 1991 referendum, and all those innocent lives that have been upended, or lost, as a result of Russia’s unlawful, barbaric and wasteful invasion of Ukraine.
“Scotland’s thoughts remain with you, and will be reflected in our deeds, for as long as takes.
“Until there is enduring peace in Europe, until we regain Ukrainian sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity once more, we stand with Ukraine.”
See the pictures below:
Why are you making commenting on The National only available to subscribers?
We know there are thousands of National readers who want to debate, argue and go back and forth in the comments section of our stories. We’ve got the most informed readers in Scotland, asking each other the big questions about the future of our country.
Unfortunately, though, these important debates are being spoiled by a vocal minority of trolls who aren’t really interested in the issues, try to derail the conversations, register under fake names, and post vile abuse.
So that’s why we’ve decided to make the ability to comment only available to our paying subscribers. That way, all the trolls who post abuse on our website will have to pay if they want to join the debate – and risk a permanent ban from the account that they subscribe with.
The conversation will go back to what it should be about – people who care passionately about the issues, but disagree constructively on what we should do about them. Let’s get that debate started!
Callum Baird, Editor of The National
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel