Supporting Ukraine

I don’t want to add too many words on the horrendous war theatre that currently is Ukraine – active support is what the poor victims require.  Some western countries may well have been playing a destabilizing role in the area – such situations are never purely one-sided. But the most barbaric act I’ve seen was a tank driver deliberately aiming for, running over, then reversing over a civilian car. Miraculously the driver survived. May that soldier and the icy-eyed perpetrator, Vladimir Putin, eventually get their just deserts.  

 After an initially frustrating period of inactivity, it seems that Europe is going to take action. They have agreed to supply anti-tank weapon, anti-aircraft systems and medical supplies, while SWIFT economic sanctions agreed by US, Canada, UK and Germany should curb Russian trade to some extent.  

The Ukrainian troops are still holding Kiev – may that continue and may their lives and culture be protected. Below we see their beautiful gold-domed St Michael’s Cathedral – an outstanding city centre-piece.                                                      

What has moved me greatly – and spurred Europe into action - is the global outpouring of condemnation of the invasion and the widespread support expressed for the Ukrainian population. Below we see the famous Scottish Kelpies lit up in Ukrainian national colours.

                                                  
We even have a tartan dedicated to these fine people.

                                                 
Ukrainians love flowers in general and the sunflower, in particular. In fact, they are one of the world’s foremost producers of seeds and oil produced from that crop. It has become one of their symbols, representing as it does the warmth and power of the sun.                                                         

However, for two reasons it has now become a mark of their courage. A Ukrainian woman bravely handed a Russian soldier some sunflower seeds, urging him and his fellows to put them in their pockets so that, ‘…at least sunflowers will grow when you all lie down here.’

 She is being hailed as a hero of her people as, of course, are the lady soldiers marching into combat, wearing the sunflower to represent one of their national flag colours.

                                         

Another symbol, the national bird, is the nightingale, famed for its powerful and beautiful song. Ukrainian folklore associates it with volition, high inspiration and unsurpassed talent.

                                                   
May peace be restored as soon as possible and may the only sound to be heard be the melodic song of this precious little being, heralding in a new era for this beleaguered country.