Strictly Come Dancing professional Pasha Kovalev has been praised for publicly supporting Ukraine amid the devastating war there.
The Russian pro dancer has been vocal about his views on the war, as he criticised Putin's decision to invade Ukraine, and he has now decided to put on a charity event this weekend to help raise money for Ukrainian children.
He had originally planned with his dance partner to hold a special online show to raise money for those in the theatre industry, who have been struggling since the Covid pandemic, but they have now decided to also raise money to help Ukraine.
"Most Russian people I know are definitely against war and war against Ukraine. It's not even in the question, it shouldn't be happening," he said as he spoke to Lorraine Kelly about the events happening in Europe.
The host then responded on the ITV morning show: "People are against the regime, they're not against the people."
Explaining his decision to now help Ukrainian children, he added: "The entertainment industry was hit hard by Covid and I know everyone had tough times during Covid and a lot of people lost their livelihoods and their jobs and had to find a different way to help their families. We were initially supporting theatre related charities, but when Ukraine happened, we just knew we had to help there."
At the end of the interview, Lorraine praised Pasha for publicly standing up against Russian.
"Thank you for everything you're doing for the people in the entertainment industry, but also for the children in Ukraine, and for standing up, we really appreciate it Pasha," she told him.
Others have also heaped praise on the dancer, with one writing on Instagram : "Thank you Pasha. We have no argument with the Russian people. God help Russia! And God help us all," as another added: "I know many of your people don’t want this war either. It’s so sad and this is an amazing gesture! It shows the Ukrainian people, that not everyone who is Russian wants this either."
A third added: "Beautiful words Pasha it is. Its truly sad and heartbreaking and you and no one else want this."
