Ukrainian journalist on Russian 'kill list' granted UK visa to live with partner from Manchester

Jez and Maria joined presenters Rob Smith and Lucy Meacock in the studio to talk about their journey across the Polish border - and the relief of flying back to the UK.

A Ukrainian journalist, who says her name could be on the Russian 'kill list' has spoken of her relief after being granted a UK visa to live with her partner, who is from Manchester.

Maria Romanenko and her boyfriend Jez Myers were forced to flee Kyiv as Russian forces began a full-scale invasion of the country.

They took refuge at a friend's house in Warsaw, Poland, after making the "terrifying" 23-hour journey across the border from war-torn Ukraine.

The couple arrived at Manchester airport on Wednesday, 2 March.

Maria tweeted to share her delight about being granted a visa.

The couple thanked Denton and Reddish MP Andrew Gwynne for his support.

Maria said they chose to leave her beloved homeland because of her profession as a journalist - and the Russian government's so-called 'kill list'.

The United States revealed that it had "credible information" that Russian forces are creating lists of Ukrainians to be killed or sent to camps in the event of occupation.

Speaking to Granada Reports earlier this week, Jez said he would not return to his home city unless Maria is allowed to come with him.

At first it was announced that Ukrainians who live or are settled in the UK would be able to bring over their immediate relatives.

Jez has described the UK's initial reaction to granting Ukrainian people visas as "weak" and has called on the government to "do a lot more" to help those fleeing the country.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced that immediate family members will be able to join Ukrainians settled in the UK following a relaxation of visa requirements, while Defence Secretary Ben Wallace has hinted further measures could be announced soon.