Kent stands with Chernihiv as Ukraine marks three years since the full-scale invasion

Today, Ukraine marks the third anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion, a grim milestone that reminds us not only of the passage of time, but of the extraordinary endurance, courage and sacrifice shown by the Ukrainian people every single day since 24 February 2022.

As Ukraine enters a fourth year of conflict, it is important that we pause to remember the human suffering behind the headlines, and to recognise that humanitarian needs remain acute. The enormity of the impact on Ukrainian citizens is something that we in the UK can only begin to imagine, yet it is precisely why international solidarity and practical support matter now more than ever.

For the people of Kent, this anniversary is deeply personal. Since the first days of the invasion, communities across our county have stepped forward with compassion and resolve, offering help, friendship and hope to those whose lives have been torn apart by war. Kent residents have opened their homes to Ukrainian families through the Homes for Ukraine scheme, while schools, charities, parish communities and local volunteers have worked tirelessly to provide support in countless ways.

To mark this poignant day, Kent County Council Leader, County Councillor Roger Gough, and County Councillor Jordan Meade held a virtual call with the Head of the Chernihiv Regional Military Administration, Governor Viacheslav Chaus, to reaffirm Kent’s unwavering support for the Chernihiv region and recommit the friendship of the people of Kent.

During the call, Councillor Gough reflected on the significance of the moment, stressing the importance of standing by Ukraine in both word and deed:

“There is an ongoing dialogue being played out in the media and across the world concerning the urgent need to find a way to resolve this conflict and secure peace on terms that protect the security of Ukraine and of Europe. As Ukraine enters a fourth year of conflict, it is important that we pause to remember the human suffering behind the headlines, and that humanitarian needs remain acute.”

He added:

“The enormity of the impact on Ukrainian citizens is something that we can only begin to imagine, but it was important to me today, as Leader of KCC, to contact Vyacheslav Chaus simply to tell him that these people are in our thoughts. It was also an opportunity to update him on the links that are being built and developed as part of our Memorandum of Understanding with the Chernihiv Region.”

Following the call, Governor Chaus issued a powerful message of thanks, highlighting just how much the continued support of international partners means to communities enduring the ongoing realities of war:

“Consistently: partner support is important. There will be quite an international component this week Notably, that on the third anniversary of the full-scale invasion had a conversation with Kent County Council Chairman Roger Hoff and Councillor - Jordan Mead. All these three years, the Brits are our reliable friends. Humanitarian sphere, sport, education, medicine and culture - everywhere British partners have given us their strong shoulder. We have a lot of common plans for 2025-th. Ongoing cooperation between communities and educational institutions of our two countries. Let's strengthen joint work on veteran policies and cooperation between our chambers of commerce. Thank you for the unchanging support of Chernihiv region. Working together.”

His words are a moving testament to the strength of the bond formed between Kent and Chernihiv over the last three years, and a reminder that meaningful partnership is built through consistency, trust, and shared purpose.

Kent’s connection with Chernihiv is not symbolic. It is active, practical, and growing. Kent County Council has agreed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Chernihiv region to deepen cooperation and build strong, long-term relationships between our communities and institutions. This work includes encouraging parish-level twinning arrangements, creating cultural and civic partnerships, and developing school friendship links that enable young people to build language skills and lasting connections through exchange and communication.

This partnership also looks firmly to the future. In 2025, Kent and Chernihiv will continue strengthening cooperation in humanitarian support, education and culture, while exploring new collaboration on veteran policy and supporting trade and reconstruction through deeper ties between business communities and chambers of commerce.

Councillor Jordan Meade said:

“In a spirit of enduring friendship and support, we today mark the anniversary of the full-scale invasion by renewing our pledge and commitment to stand by the people of Chernihiv and Ukraine.”

To honour this third anniversary and to show visible solidarity, County Hall will be lit in blue and yellow and the Ukrainian flag will fly all week as a clear statement that Kent stands with Ukraine.

Three years on, this war continues to bring profound suffering. Entire communities have been shaped by loss, displacement and destruction. Yet Ukraine’s resilience remains extraordinary, and Chernihiv has become a symbol not only of what has been endured, but of what will be rebuilt.

Kent’s message, on this anniversary, is simple and unwavering:

'We stand with Chernihiv. We stand with Ukraine. And we will continue to stand with our friends for as long as it takes.'