KINGSTON Council's leader has condemned the "shocking" invasion of Ukraine by Russia and said that the Council stands in unity with the country's residents.

In a statement yesterday, Andreas Kirsch added that the authority would provide support to those affected.

Cllr Kirsch said: "The shocking invasion of Ukraine is beyond comprehension, and we condemn in the strongest terms the deliberate targeting of innocent families and communities.

"We stand in unity with the people of Ukraine, who are today facing the harrowing realities of war, as well as their friends and relatives here in Kingston. Our thoughts are with you and we offer our heartfelt support.

"We also keep in our thoughts our Russian residents who will no doubt be appalled by what has unfolded.

"We join the international community in urging President Putin to end the invasion now and commit to urgently finding a peaceful way forward to resolving the conflict.

"Kingston is a welcoming and inclusive place, where the contributions people from all over the world bring to our local community are welcomed and celebrated.

"We are committed to working with our local partners to play our part in providing support and reassurance to those affected."

Kingston and Surbiton MP Ed Davey also condemned the invasion, calling Thursday morning's attack "the darkest day for our continent since 1945."

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