Government must not ‘abandon’ Ukraine, Lib Dem leader warns in call for more aid

The Scottish Liberal Democrat leader has said he hopes the Scottish Government will not “abandon our Ukrainian allies”.

Alex Cole-Hamilton responded to a letter from Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes on Thursday after writing to her to ask if the Scottish Government has any further plans to fund military aid to Ukraine.

Ms Forbes said the Government “condemns Russia’s illegal war against Ukraine”, and funding of £65 million was announced in June 2022 for aid for Ukraine.

This contribution was part of the £1 billion funding from the UK Government, which was used to help Ukraine finance air defence systems and vital medical kit for soldiers.

Mr Cole-Hamilton said Ms Forbes did not take the opportunity to commit to further funding for military aid.

Responding to her letter, he said: “This is short-term thinking from the Scottish Government. It’s disappointing that Kate Forbes has passed up a commitment to further funding for the Ukrainian war effort.

“If Putin’s war machine is allowed to roll over Ukraine, the West will face similar threats again in Poland or the Baltics. Tackling those threats will come at a far greater cost.

“When I visited Lviv (Ukraine), I was impressed by the bravery and fortitude of the Ukrainian forces.

“They are immensely grateful for the support Scotland has given, but the demands for military, economic and medical aid are huge.

“Helping Ukraine roll back the Russians is a sensible investment to deliver a peaceful future. I hope that the SNP will change course and ensure that we do not abandon our Ukrainian allies.”