Thousands take part in rallies to show solidarity with Ukraine
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Video report by Helen Steel
Rallies are being held across the region this weekend to show solidarity with the people of Ukraine.
In York, MP's called on people to gather at St Helene's Square this afternoon (Saturday 5 March) as the Russian invasion entered its tenth day.
A specially commissioned heart shaped ice sculpture of the Ukrainian flag was positioned in the city centre.
Councillor Keith Aspden, Leader of the Council, said: "Following Russia's unprovoked and unjustified invasion of the independent nation of Ukraine, I am proud that the people of York will come together this weekend to show their solidarity with the people of Ukraine.
To mark this occasion, the city's ice trail will proudly showcase a sculpture in support of Ukraine, which I hope residents and visitors will use as an opportunity to reflect on these tragic events, and join the international condemnation of the Russian State's actions.
"York has a proud history of a city of sanctuary and our communities have shown themselves to be caring and supportive for people in need. We stand ready and willing to support those fleeing the current conflict in any way we can. "
The council added they are working closely with the Government and Migration Yorkshire to 'provide support' as they have done with previous refugees.
A rally also took place in King Edward Square in Hull with people encouraged to come bearing flags and banners.
Many wanted more action from western nations to help the war torn country among them Lana and Peter Fenwick.
Lana has family in Ukraine including her brother who lives near the site of the recently attacked nuclear power plant. And protesters said more needed to be done to help refugees fleeing the country.
She said:"My brother is held inside the city he is from Zaporizhzhia so I just rang him in the morning and I just said go away because of an explosion you take my mum and go I don't know where.
Very practically on the ground we need to make sure people who can donate whether it's money or goods get to Ukraine there is a lot the Government can do but people you know in Hull don't wait for the Government we get on and organise ourselves."
It comes as Russia has broken a ceasefire intended to give Ukrainian civilians a chance to evacuate two cities under siege, according to a senior official.
The Russian military had said it would observe a ceasefire in Mariupol in the south-east and the eastern town of Volnovakha from 7am UK time on Saturday, expected to last until 2pm UK time.