Hundreds of people have gathered in Carmarthen town centre to show solidarity with the people of Ukraine as they continue to suffer the reality of a brutal war inflicted upon them by Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Ukraine was invaded by Russian forces ten days ago (on Thursday, February 24) and since then thousands are said to have lost their lives as the country bravely tries to resist a military offensive both on the ground and in the air.
Russia and its leader have been condemned across the globe in the wake of the invasion, with heavy sanctions being imposed in an attempt to damage the country economically.
Read more: A week of war: the most striking images from Ukraine
Solidarity has been shown by millions worldwide who are calling for an end to the conflict and for more support for those who are suffering in Kyiv, Kharkiv, Irpin and other Ukrainian cities, towns and villages which have come under attack.
In Carmarthen, a silent vigil was held in the town centre on Sunday evening.
At 6pm, between two and three hundred people gathered in Nott Square to show their support. The crowd stood silently for 15 minutes, something described by local councillor Alun Lenny as an “amazing and extraordinary experience”.
Either side of the period of silence, the crowd was addressed by local Reverend Beti-Wyn James, who had organised the event.
“The fact that so many people attended, and at short notice, reflects the community’s desire to come together to support ourselves at this distressing time for all, as well as showing support for the people of Ukraine in their horrific suffering,” said the Reverend.
Meanwhile, on Saturday, hundreds marched through Carmarthen town centre in an event designed to celebrate St David’s Day but one that also quickly became a show of support for the people of Ukraine and for the ideals of democracy and peace.
The gathering included Carmarthen mayor, Councillor Gareth John, who addressed the crowd, along with Plaid Cymru leader Adam Price. Mr Price, the MS for Carmarthen East and Dinefwr, spoke last week at a similar gathering outside the Senedd in Cardiff Bay, and in fact returned from a visit to Ukraine just hours before the Russian invasion began.
Talking to the crowds in Carmarthen on Saturday, he relayed a message that was given to him by the people of Ukraine: “Don’t be afraid of Putin - we don’t fear him. He is the enemy, not the Russian people.”
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