Greens: UK must step up sanctions on Russia
The UK must immediately implement sweeping sanctions on Russia and prepare to welcome refugees from under-siege Ukraine, the Scottish Greens have said.
Responding to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Scottish Greens external affairs spokesperson Ross Greer said: “The Scottish Greens stand in solidarity with the people of Ukraine and condemn Russia’s brutal, unprovoked aggression against an independent, democratic nation.
“The UK Government’s response so far has been weak and embarrassing. This war crime calls for a comprehensive package of sanctions targeting all Russian state-backed businesses, any bank or other organisation connected to Russia’s arms industry and against Putin’s close associates themselves.
"That has to include action against the money-laundering networks which have made the City of London a favourite destination for Kremlin-linked oligarchs. It is also essential that the influence of Russian money on our politics via donations to the Conservative party be thoroughly and publicly audited.
“The humanitarian catastrophe in Afghanistan cannot be repeated in Ukraine. The UK Government must follow the lead of countries including Ireland and Moldova and stand ready to welcome refugees fleeing this conflict, especially those most at risk under a Russian occupation such as journalists and LGBT people.
“Let us all hope, even at this late hour, that a prolonged war can be prevented. The devastation that would bring does not bear thinking about.”