Ukrainian residents share pain of watching war from afar

Island stands united with Ukraine

People on the Isle of Man have been thanked for supporting members of the Ukrainian community who have been forced to watch the invasion of their country from afar.

Last week Russian President Vladimir Putin launched a military attack on Ukraine claiming he was trying to protect people from genocide in the east of the country.

Many have been injured or killed and the United Nations is estimating that more than 360,000 people have fled to neighbouring countries becoming refugees in the process.

People around the world have watched in horror, and condemnation, at Russia's assault on Ukraine – particularly members of the Ukrainian community who are many miles from home.  

Manx Radio spoke to Oksana Fedorovych – she moved to the Isle of Man with her husband, who's also Ukrainian, almost five years ago: 

 Someone who shares Oksana's turmoil is Peel resident Karolina Davison who has lived on the Island for 17 years:

"Assets we can freeze. Sanctions we can support. United we stand." - Chief Minister Alfred Cannan

The Isle of Man Government says it stands united with Ukraine and will take action in line with the UK in relation to imposing sanctions and freezing assets.

The Tynwald building has been lit up in the colours of the Ukrainian flag to show solidarity and, yesterday, churches around the Island urged their congregations to pray for the people in Ukraine.

Reverend Peter Eagles is the Bishop of Sodor and Mann:

With the situation in the country changing rapidly it seems that all Karolina, Oksana and the other members of the Island's Ukrainian community can do is wait and hope, and maybe even pray, for peace and resolution.

To donate to the British Red Cross Ukraine Crisis Appeal click HERE.