Tag: Kyiv

New exhibition focusing on the impact of war in Kyiv opens today at the Museum of Edinburgh

KYIV IS THE UNBREAKABLE HEART OF EUROPE exhibition

A photography exhibition entitled ‘Kyiv is the Unbreakable Heart of Europe’ will open today (Saturday 23 September) at the Museum of Edinburgh.

The exhibition is made up of 32 images of Kyiv and its surrounding areas and was commissioned by the Kyiv City State Administration. These images illustrate the stark reality of Russia’s illegal war and the horrific impact on the daily lives of Ukrainians in the capital and beyond.

Before arriving in Edinburgh, the exhibition had been displayed in Prague, Lublin, Giessen, Mexico City and Berlin.

In a special preview hosted on Thursday at the Museum, Council Leader Cammy Day, alongside members of the Association for Ukrainians in Great Britain (AUGB) Edinburgh branch, had a chance to see the exhibition firsthand.

Council Leader Cammy Day said: “I was incredibly moved today upon seeing these images from Kyiv. These are an important reminder of the terrible human cost of Russia’s illegal war against Ukraine.

“I’ve been clear for the past 18 months that Edinburgh stands in solidarity with Ukraine and with the Ukrainians who have made their new lives here in Edinburgh. I am incredibly proud of the support we have provided as a Council and as a city to those fleeing the most grave and terrible circumstances. We will continue this support for as long as is necessary.

“I would encourage all residents and visitors in Edinburgh to visit this exhibition from this weekend. “

Ukrainian Consul to Edinburgh, Andrii Kuslii said:  “Russia’s illegal war against Ukraine has had detrimental consequences for the Ukrainian people. They have faced unimaginable hardships and loss, yet their resilience and determination to reclaim their sovereignty is inspiring.

“By attending the exhibition, you have the opportunity to show your unwavering support for Ukraine. Together, we can shed light on the war crimes committed by Russia in Ukraine.

“The exhibition serves as a declaration that Ukrainian people’s fight for independence and stability will not be forgotten or diminished. By attending, you can add your collective voice to the chorus of support and ensure that the world recognizes the strength and resilience of the people of Ukraine.”

Chair of the AUGB Edinburgh Branch, Hannah Beaton-Hawryluk: “This photo exhibition is a powerful opportunity to show the world what is happening in Ukraine so that the world doesn’t forget about the brutal war in the centre of Europe and the destruction to the Ukrainian people.

The exhibition runs from September 23 to November 12, 2023. Entry is free.

Accessibility guidelines for the Museum of Edinburgh can be found on our website.

PM pledges UK’s unwavering support to Ukraine on visit to Kyiv

  • Prime Minister meets President Zelenskyy in Kyiv and pledges to stand by the Ukrainian people
  • Leaders have discussed the support for Ukraine’s long-term survival as a free and democratic country
  • PM set out new military aid and an additional $500bn World Bank guarantee to support Ukraine’s economy

The Prime Minister was in Kyiv yesterday [Saturday] to demonstrate the UK’s steadfast solidarity with Ukraine and hold in-depth discussions with President Zelenskyy on military and economic assistance.

He reiterated that the UK will do everything in its power to support Ukraine’s brave fight against Russia’s brutal and unprovoked invasion and ensure its long term security and prosperity.

The Prime Minister set out new military assistance of 120 armoured vehicles and new anti-ship missile systems, to support Ukraine in this crucial phase while Russia’s illegal assault continues.

This is in addition to the £100 million worth of high-grade military equipment announced yesterday, including more Starstreak anti-aircraft missiles, another 800 anti-tank missiles, and high-tech loitering munitions for precision strikes.

The Prime Minister also confirmed further economic support, guaranteeing an additional $500m [£385m] in World Bank lending to Ukraine, taking our total loan guarantee to up to $1 billion. This comes alongside the £394m the UK has provided in grant aid, and will help ensure the continued running of vital humanitarian services for Ukrainians.

The UK has responded to the request of the Ukrainian government by liberalising tariffs on the vast majority of imports from Ukraine and providing customs easements, as part of our commitment to the country’s economic stability.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson said: “It is a privilege to be able to travel to 2Ukraine and meet President Zelenskyy in person in Kyiv today.

“Ukraine has defied the odds and pushed back Russian forces from the gates of Kyiv, achieving the greatest feat of arms of the 21st century.

“It is because of President Zelenskyy’s resolute leadership and the invincible heroism and courage of the Ukrainian people that Putin’s monstrous aims are being thwarted.

“I made clear today that the United Kingdom stands unwaveringly with them in this ongoing fight, and we are in it for the long run.

“We are stepping up our own military and economic support and convening a global alliance to bring this tragedy to an end, and ensure Ukraine survives and thrives as a free and sovereign nation.”

‘Standing firm in friendship’

Council to grant Freedom of the City to leaders of Ukraine

City councillors have reinforced the City’s ongoing solidarity with the people of Ukraine.

Councillors came together at yesterday’s full council meeting to unanimously grant the Freedom of the City to the Ukrainian President, Volodymyr Zelensky, and Mayor Vitali Klitschko of Edinburgh’s twin city, Kyiv, in recognition of them standing heroically by their citizens and leading the fight against Russia’s illegal invasion.

The Council Leaders also reaffirmed their support of local humanitarian efforts and help for refugees, confirming that Edinburgh ‘stands ready’ to support victims of the crisis who seek refuge in Edinburgh.

The meeting heard from the Chair of the Ukrainian Association in Edinburgh, Hannah Beaton-Hawryluk, who thanked the city and Council for their ongoing efforts – highlighting many of the horrors being faced by Scottish-Ukrainian residents’ family members and those trying to flee.

In readiness for welcoming refugees to the city, officers are holding daily meetings with the Scottish Government, Edinburgh Airport, third sector partners and other agencies to make sure people are welcomed into safety and receive all the support they need from the moment they land.

This is being coordinated to ensure the best use of resources – whether that be arranging accommodation, transport, interpreters, access to GPs and healthcare, counselling, education, and other vital services.

A helpline has also been set up for Ukrainian arrivals, which will be operated 24 hours a day, and a dedicated page on the council website.

Council Leader Adam McVey said: “We’re standing firm in friendship with the people of Ukraine, committing to doing whatever we can to help.

“I’m enormously proud we’ve agreed to award the Freedom of Edinburgh to President Zelensky (above) and Mayor Klitschko, recognising all they’ve done and continue to do for their people.

“I hope this decision demonstrates our absolute solidarity and admiration of the people of Kyiv and Ukraine, who have literally taken up arms in defence of their country against this illegal and murderous invasion by Putin’s forces, and I very much hope that, one day, they’ll be able to receive this honour in person.

“I’ve been deeply moved by the footage on all of our TV screens and by the outpouring of support from Edinburgh, as highlighted by the Ukrainian Association’s heartfelt and powerful deputation earlier today. Their members are doing everything they can to support their literal brothers and sisters, who are victims of this war, and to deliver humanitarian aid.

“The money we have pledged will make a huge difference to organisations like this, and we’ll continue to look at further actions in the weeks and months ahead to do everything within our power to help people who are arriving in our city to escape Ukraine. There’s no doubting the enormity of the task to make this happen and I know the Ukrainian community are immensely grateful for the support they’ve had so far.”

Depute Leader Cammy Day said: “Today we heard heart-breaking stories of local people whose families are trapped in this war and those who are fleeing. We will do everything we can to welcome those who arrive here with open arms.

“We’ve already witnessed an incredible response from the people of Edinburgh since the invasion began, with tonnes of donations arriving at Ukraine’s borders having been donated, packed and driven by volunteers from Edinburgh. I’m sure we will see this generosity continue as people open their doors to join the Homes for Ukraine scheme.

“As a city, we condemn the actions of Putin’s regime and commend the heroic way in which Ukraine’s political leaders have stood up to lead and defend their nation. The Freedom of the City is a tradition that dates back over 560 years and can only be ‘bestowed upon those who are held in the highest esteem’. It is very rarely conferred in Edinburgh so the unanimous decision at Council speaks volumes about the strength of Edinburgh’s solidarity.”

Following the Council’s decision today, up to £100,000 of Council funding will also be targeted towards local efforts with the Edinburgh Partnership to maximise supplies to Ukraine, support local infrastructure for facilitating donations and transport of supplies to Poland and elsewhere.

Letters will be sent to the Home Office, UK Foreign Office and MOD seeking further clarity and support for refugees and help with temporary accommodation.

In an additional display of solidarity with Ukraine, a ban on Russian cultural events and performances in Council-owned venues has also been set and the Council has ended its relationship with the Russian Consulate, and the Ukrainian flag will continue to fly from the City Chambers.