It's easy to feel helpless when we’re confronted by further chilling reports from Ukraine and new threats from Russia’s meglomaniac leader, Vladimir Putin.
What can we do, in the face of the suffering of young and old, and the frightening prospect of a wider European war?
Respect, then, to the Merseyside dockers who refused to unload Russian oil bound for Stanlow Oil Refinery, Cheshire, in solidarity with the Ukrainians.
The Government has already banned vessels owned, operated or chartered by Russia from our ports but those registered with other countries can still transport Russian products to Britain.
In highlighting what trade unions say is a loophole in UK sanctions, the dockers have shown that individuals can make a difference.
They should be praised for standing by Ukraine.
We echo their call for the Government to change the rule that would have allowed a German vessel to unload its Russian cargo on our shores.
Companies have been trying to do their bit as well by depriving Russian consumers of their goods or closing their Russian stores, to heap pressure on Putin’s regime.
They, too, deserve praise.
But some big names – among them McDonald’s – have failed to pull the plug.
It’s time for them to act and to put principles before profit.
Still walking in fear
The women and men who joined vigils after the death of Sarah Everard a year ago hoped they could make a difference. They believed her rape and murder might be a turning point, sparking action to make the streets safer.
So it’s heartbreaking to learn that since Sarah’s killing by a serving police officer, there have been almost 230,000 attacks on the streets of England and Wales.
The chilling statistics, from app WalkSafe, also highlight where most attacks take place. Car parks are worst, followed by areas near sports and recreation facilities, and supermarkets.
As WalkSafe co-founder Emma Kay says, it’s awful to think these attacks are happening as women are doing everyday things.
While the horrors of war rightly dominate the headlines, we must not forget the issue of violence against women, to ensure Sarah has a lasting legacy.
