Ukrainians and their supporters in Ross-shire prepare for first anniversary of the Russian invasion
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A candlelit vigil is to be held in the Highlands to mark the first anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
Ukrainians living in the Highlands will attend the event in Inverness on Friday along with those who have opened their homes as hosts.
Helen MacRae of the charity Highlands for Ukraine said: "Even though they are safe here in Scotland, Ukrainians are terrified of what President Putin and his troops might unleash on their close family and friends left in their homeland when February 24 arrives.
"To help them feel supported and cared for, a local charity has arranged a silent candlelit vigil in the capital of the Highlands at 7.30pm that night.
"Highland Council, which is supporting the event, is arranging for all Ukrainians in Ross-shire to receive invitations to the vigil and the local authority is providing buses and coaches to allow those Ukrainians in hotels to get to and from the Inverness event."
One of those who has brought his children to the Highlands for safety is the Brazilian Consul for Dnipro region in Ukraaine, Oleg Vasylenko.
He is urging everyone to show their support by travelling to Queen’s Park, in Inverness (next to Inverness Leisure Centre) for the vigil.
He said: “The people here are very sympathetic to us and are doing everything possible to help Ukraine in this terrible war and also all its citizens who have found refuge in the hospitable Highlands.”
He asked Highlanders to “support us in our national tragedy" and added: "On Friday night, together with the people of the Highlands, we will express our position against the genocide of the Ukrainian people.”
Mr Vasylenko will be one of the speakers who will also address the vigil at Queen’s Park in Inverness.
A total of 1000 candles will be available for the event though people can also use their mobile phones to use as torches to light up the darkness.
Anyone with a Ukrainian flag or who would like to make a sign of support for Ukraine is invited to bring that along too.
