Two of Russia’s official representatives in the UK were this week told: “We in Perth and Kinross stand ready to open our arms in support of those in Ukraine and to help them in whatever way we can.”
That was the message contained in a letter by Perth and Kinross Council leader Murray Lyle and dispatched to both Russian Federation ambassador Andrei Kelin and consul general Andrey Yakovlev.
It follows the widespread outrage and consternation sparked by Russia president Vladimir Putin’s decision to order his country’s forces to invade neighbouring Ukraine last week.
Cllr Lyle’s letter states: “The inevitable suffering being, and yet to be, caused to local communities across Ukraine by the Russian military invasion cannot be ignored.
“What is happening in Ukraine just now, and to its free democratically-elected government, is both frightening and heart-breaking.
“We in Perth and Kinross stand ready to open our arms in support of those in Ukraine and to help them in whatever way we can. I call on the Federation of Russia to cease this unwarranted attack and to respect international treaties and the fundamental principles of international law.”
The Strathallan Conservative elected member’s letters come in the wake of councillors issuing a call for Perth to suspend its twinning link with the Russian city of Pskov.
A motion in relation to the matter has been tabled by Highland Perthshire independent councillor Xander McDade and seconded by SNP Strathtay member Grant Laing.
If accepted, it will be discussed at a full PKC meeting on Wednesday next week.
Mr Kelin is based at Kensington Palace Gardens in London, while compatriot Mr Yakovlev’s office is in Edinburgh’s Melville Street.
Meanwhile, Police Scotland has circulated a message to reassure local Ukrainian and Russian communities over their safety.
Assistant chief constable Gary Ritchie stated there is no intelligence to suggest “any specific threat to yourselves as a result of the reported military action” in the Ukraine.
He added that Police Scotland is “committed to keeping people safe”, and whilst he understands that people may feel vulnerable as a result of this action, he is urging everyone to continue to work together and ensure “no person or group in Scotland feels marginalised or isolated”.
His statement continued: “I would encourage you to inform Police Scotland of any increased tensions or any emerging risks, in addition to any other community concerns, you become aware of. This will allow us to work with communities to address any emerging issues.
“If you have any information or concerns, I would urge you to contact the police either by calling 101, or dial 999, through Contact Scotland BSL or SMS 999 for emergencies, or by contacting Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
“If you are a victim or witness to hate crime this can also be reported using our online hate crime reporting form on the Police Scotland website .”
Ukrainian or Russian nationals with concerns are being directed to the following consulates: Consulate of Ukraine, 8 Windsor Street, Edinburgh EH7 5JR, 0131 5560023; and Consulate General of Russia, 58 Melville Street, Edinburgh, EH3 7HF, 0131 2257098.
