Our entire maritime family stands in solidarity with the people of Ukraine
Responding to the developing crisis in Ukraine, Chris Shirling-Rooke, CEO of Mersey Maritime, writes:
“As with many millions of people around the world we have looked on with horror and dismay at Russia’s assault on Ukraine which is an unprovoked, premeditated attack on a sovereign and democratic state. Our thoughts are with the Ukrainian people and their families, particularly those who have been displaced by the conflict or suffered the loss of their family members. The grit, determination and resistance of the people on the ground in the face of aggression from their neighbouring country is an inspiration to us albeit that we regret it is necessary.
From our port city of Liverpool, it is heart rendering to see the destruction unleashed on the coastal areas of Ukraine. Who could fail to be moved to see the ruthless destruction of significant places such as the port city of Mariupol which, having suffered a relentless and sustained shelling bombardment, is understood to be near to a human catastrophe? We express our solidarity with the people of the whole Ukraine but especially with those within our maritime family across the sea. It is our earnest wish that diplomacy will result in a swift end to the conflict, on the back of strong economic sanctions against the aggressor state, so that the lives and livelihoods of so many will be protected and restored as soon as possible.
Maritime is an international business which touches every corner of the globe; it is fundamental to global trade and there’s a clear role for it to play in the extensive response towards the Russian government. We support the clear actions taken by governments across the world who were clear from an early stage that Russian military action like this would face massive consequences.
The Department for Transport have responded this week to limit Russian vessels entering UK ports and this is a welcome move. The action has been swift, meaning that vessels owned, controlled, chartered or operated by any person connected with Russia; owned, controlled, chartered or operated by Designated Persons; flying the Russian flag or registered in Russia, are all impacted. This sends a clear message from the UK maritime sector in restricting Russia’s economic interests and holding Putin’s regime to account.
Being so far away from the conflict zone it is hard to know what we can do in a practical way to demonstrate our support. The Disasters Emergency Committee has launched a special Ukraine Appeal and the UK Government will match donations from the public pound-for-pound starting with £20 million. This means any support you can give will go even further. Other safe and secure routes to offer support are also available such as via the British Red Cross. We urge our members to offer their support.”
More details of the DEC, Red Cross appeal are available HERE
