Events take place across south coast ahead of third anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine

We spoke to Oksana Kravchenko who's organising an event in Romsey

Author: Alice SmithPublished 23rd Feb 2025

Events are taking place across the south ahead of the third anniversary since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

In Romsey, people will gather at Crosfield Hall to take part in a minute's silence before enjoying Ukrainian music and food.

Organiser Oksana Kravchenko fled to the town from Kyiv.

The mum of one is worried about the so-called 'peace deal' being struck between the US and Russia.

"We are fighting now, not only for our country, but for the whole of Europe... for human rights, and protecting democracy.

"So what will happen if that fails?"

Oksana told us more about the event she's helped organise in Romsey.

"Everyone is very welcome to join us to remember the very sad day that forever changed our lives.

"But it's very important to stay together and feel each other's support."

She told us we can't forget the sacrifice made by those fighting on the front line.

"No one should see or experience what those people have.

"I'm really happy we are in a safe place, but I feel so sorry for the people that stayed."

Meanwhile Cabinet minister Bridget Phillipson has suggested Sir Keir Starmer would raise the way in which discussions over a resolution to the Ukraine war have been taking place when he meets Donald Trump next week.

The Education Secretary told Sky's Sunday Morning With Trevor Phillips programme: "I welcome the fact that he's (Mr Trump) able to bring the Russians to the table. That is a step forward."

It was put to her that European countries, as well as Kyiv itself, have been locked out of talks between the US and Russia.

Ms Phillipson replied: "Well this is of course what the Prime Minister will be discussing with President Trump next week - how we can work with the US administration to ensure that lasting settlement.

"We want to play a key role in this but of course the US are right to take a lead on bringing people to the table, and a Ukrainian voice will be central to any lasting settlement because without Ukrainians as part of that, it just won't endure."

Hear all the latest news from across the UK on the hour, every hour, on Greatest Hits Radio on DAB, smartspeaker, at greatesthitsradio.co.uk, and on the Rayo app.