A small group of Ukrainian sympathisers gathered at St James’ Square, Newport, to protest Putin’s invasion of Ukraine on Sunday (13th March).
One of the protestors – Denyse Spiers – had previously hosted Ukrainian children affected by the Chernobyl nuclear disaster between 2007 and 2015 for monthly holidays on the Isle of Wight for the charity Chernobyl Children’s Lifeline.
Denyse said:
“I’ve come today to support my families in the Zhytomyr region of Ukraine. I just feel I need to do something.
“I’ve been to Ukraine twice and been on a tour of the former Chernobyl nuclear facility. Ukrainians are a great people, who made me feel very welcome. When I was in Ukraine I was treated like royalty. The Ukrainians simply could not do enough for me. Once Ukrainian refugees come over, I shall willingly host them.”
Another protestor – Bill Harris – made some placards that were waved by the demonstrators.
Bill said:
“It’s inhuman what the Russians are doing. The invasion was completely unprovoked. Ukrainians are peaceful and civilized people. Putin is deranged.
Article continues below this advertisement “I think the UK government has been slow in response to the refugee crisis. Poland and the other countries bordering Ukraine can’t cope.
“We need action in this country. I believe the government should change its approach. I’ve been emailing our MP Bob Seely to try to get him to do something for Ukrainian refugees.”
All talk.No action.Why don’t they go out there and fight. Instead of sitting in coffee shops gossiping.Ie I saw so and so today.etc etc.Sad .