Two Sheffield Labour councillors are traveling to Ukraine next week on a self-funded trip to demonstrate their solidarity with Ukraine.
Birley Ward councillor Mathew Dwyer and Shiregreen & Brightside councillor Mark Russell will visit Ukraine’s western city of Lviv from March 14 -17.
They plan to meet with local officials, including the Deputy Mayor and other council members and visit rehabilitation centres for civilians and soldiers affected by the war.
The councillors emphasise that their trip is not about political grandstanding, but a personal commitment to ensuring Ukraine is not forgotten.
Cllr Dwyer said: “Sheffield has stood with Ukraine since the beginning of the war—our residents opened their homes, and our city played a role in supporting their fight. We are not going to abandon them now.”
He also emphasised that the trip is not official delegations, and is entirely self-funded, with both councillors covering their own expenses.
Cllr Dwyer said that beyond political statements, visiting Ukraine in person and contributing to its local economy is a meaningful way to show support.
He said: “By travelling there, even for a short time, we’re not just showing solidarity. We’re putting money into the local economy and standing shoulder to shoulder with the Ukrainian people.”
The councillors’ visit comes at a time while debates over international aid are intensifying in the UK, particularly after the tense meeting between President Zelensky and President Trump’s tense meeting in the White House on Saturday.
In a recent parliamentary session, Prime Minister Keir Starmer addressed the nation’s support for Ukraine and said that a “coalition of the willing” will come together and draw up a peace plan to end the war in Ukraine.
Cllr Dwyer said: “I think we need to support the Ukrainians, and I’m really pleased to see the Prime Minister reiterate that — bringing European leaders together so we’re taking responsibility for our own defence.”
“We need to make sure we’re not abandoning our European brothers in Ukraine.”
The councillors hope that their visit will strengthen ties between Sheffield and Ukraine and encourage others to continue supporting the war effort.
Cllr Dwyer said: “Sheffield has stood with Ukraine since the beginning of the war. Our residents opened their homes, and our city played a role in supporting their fight.”
“We are not going to abandon them now.”