Christina McKelvie MSP for Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse has welcomed the £4 million aid package for Ukraine announced by the Scottish Government and says “the people of Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse stand four-square behind Ukraine in its time of need”.

This aid will support global humanitarian efforts and will provide basic humanitarian assistance, which will include health, water, sanitation and shelter.

Scottish Government Officials are in discussions with humanitarian aid agencies to identify the best routes for this aid to reach those affected by the Ukraine crisis, including to those displaced by the invasion. The Scottish Government will also provide medical supplier to Ukraine.

These supplies are based on a list of urgently needed medical equipment, supplies and pharmaceuticals provided by the Ukrainian Government via their Edinburgh consulate.

These will include anaesthetic machines, syringe pumps and bandages.

Moving forward work is already underway to identify what further supplies can be provided and in what quantities, in order that they can be shipped to Ukraine as quickly as possible.

Commenting Christina McKelvie MSP said:

“With this funding Nicola Sturgeon has made it clear Scotland’s unqualified support for Ukrainian independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity and to the people of Ukraine as they bravely resist the unprovoked and illegal aggression of the Russian regime.

“I know that people have, like me, been watching in horror at the scenes that have unfolded due to Russia’s illegal aggression. I have no doubt that the people of Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse stand four-square behind Ukraine in its time of need.

“I am delighted to see the work that is ongoing between the Scottish and Ukrainian Governments to get vital aid to those in dire need as quickly as possible.

“There is much more that can and should be done but it is clear that actions are needed, not words. Scotland will continue to provide active help and support to Ukraine moving forward.”