SOLIHULL is prepared to offer sanctuary to any refugees from the Ukraine, says Council leader, Councillor Ian Courts.
In his weekly message to residents, which was dominated by the conflict, Coun Courts said: “I am expecting Solihull to play its part in offering sanctuary if called upon.
“We are still awaiting the details from the Home Office concerning any new schemes, but we do have resources in place to offer support once we know more about the situation.”
It has been two weeks since Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered his troops into Ukraine.
Fierce battles across the country have seen more than 1.7million people flee their homes.
Reports say Russian forces have targeted and killed civilians as hospitals, schools and nuclear plants have been bombed as well as military targets.
Coun Courts added: “It is heartening to see the West united in condemnation of this illegal war and people around the world expressing their horror at what Russia is doing.
“Let us pray the bravery of the Ukrainian people and the unprecedented sanctions being imposed on Russia will help bring a halt to the violence and allow a peaceful and equitable solution without any more bloodshed.”
The Ukrainian flag will fly from Solihull Council house as a sign of solidarity with Ukraine and its people, says Coun Courts.
Solihull Council has set up a webpage with information and advice that residents on how to help those in Ukraine.
It includes links to organisations and websites that can help people with travel advice and links to global charities that are operating in the UK and Ukraine.
For more see https://www.solihull.gov.uk/communities-and-safety/help-ukraine.
The Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC) has set up an appeal to provide aid to those fleeing the war in Ukraine.
Visit https://donate.redcross.org.uk/appeal/ukraine-crisis-appeal to donate.
