Council unanimously supports motion in Support of Ukraine

AS the war in Ukraine enters its fifth year, Warrington Borough Council has unanimously passed a motion expressing its solidarity with Ukraine and the Ukrainian people.

Proposing the motion, Cllr. Paul Warburton said: “More than four years ago, the world watched in disbelief as Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine — a peaceful, sovereign nation. That war is still raging. Last year alone, Ukraine suffered over 55,000 drone and missile attacks, killing 2,500 civilians and injuring more than 12,000. Our support is needed now more than ever.”

Warrington has welcomed approximately 500 displaced Ukrainians since the invasion began, with councillors paying tribute to the generosity of residents, community groups, businesses, and schools. They reflected on the many ways Warrington people have responded — from opening their homes, to offering employment, friendship and material aid, to school staff going above and beyond to welcome Ukrainian children into their classrooms.
Cllr. Rebecca Knowles, seconding, added: “Warrington has responded to those fleeing war in Ukraine in the way it has always done — with generosity. Our town has a proud tradition of supporting vulnerable people and showing empathy for their predicament. It’s who we are and what we do.”
Special tribute was paid to the Warrington Ukrainian Hub in Culcheth, celebrating its fourth anniversary. Since opening in 2022, it has grown to over 300 active members, offering weekly social and support sessions and language classes.

Cllr. Warburton added: “The Warrington Ukrainian Hub is a remarkable organisation and a true reflection of the spirit of our town. That it has been nominated for the King’s Award for Voluntary Service in the very week of its fourth anniversary is something the whole of Warrington can be proud of.”
The motion condemns the unprovoked Russian invasion of Ukraine, stands in solidarity with all Ukrainians in Ukraine and in Warrington, commits to flying the Ukrainian flag over the Town Hall every 24th February, and will see the Council write to the Ukrainian Ambassador expressing Warrington’s support and respect for Ukraine’s sovereignty, courage and freedom.
Cllr. Warburton concluded: “To the Ukrainians living among us — you did not want this war. Warrington is your home for as long as you need it. You are Warringtonians. And to my fellow councillors — passing this motion means standing on the right side of history, showing solidarity with a country that continues to fight for democracy, sovereignty and the rule of law. These are values we must never take for granted.”

Slava Ukraini.