A protest in support of Ukraine has been planned in Bristol tomorrow. The "Stand with Ukraine" protest will take place at College Green from midday. It has already interested more than one hundred people, with more than half of those confirming their attendance via the Facebook event page.
It follows Russian troops closing in as Ukraine says at least 137 civilians and soldiers were killed yesterday - the first day of the invasion - as residents are being told to take shelter in bunkers.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky delivered a national address this morning (February 25) where he confirmed multiple Russian strikes hit the capital as well as other parts of the country early today. He said: "We have information that enemy sabotage groups have entered Kyiv. Therefore, I urge Kyiv residents to be careful and follow the curfew rules."
Read more: Bristol expert warns of "significant casualties" in Russian invasion of Ukraine
Now, back in Bristol, a peaceful protest is being planned to try and "raise awareness" about the invasion of Ukraine and to "pressure developed countries to strike back with reckless measures to stop the Russian tyrant."
The event page says: "Ukraine and its people are now in need of your support! Please show them some love by bringing posters, Ukrainian flags and anything you can to College Green at noon on Saturday."
Meanwhile, the EU, Australia and Japan have unveiled fresh sanctions targeting Russian banks and companies, after the UK announced theirs yesterday. But Mr Zelensky questioned the power of Western sanctions in his speech this morning, saying: "Like yesterday, the world’s most powerful forces are watching from afar."
Read more: Heartbroken Ukrainians speak of 'anger and frustration' during Bristol vigil
President Vladimir Putin continues to defend the invasion, saying there was no other way to defend Russia. French President Emmanuel Macron said he phoned Vladimir Putin asking him to end the attack, and the call was "frank, direct, quick."
You can read more about the latest developments of the Russian invasion of Ukraine by clicking here.
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