Test Valley Council leader Phil North says the war unleashed by Russian President Putin on Ukraine should be of grave concern to us all and the borough stands with Ukrainian people in their hour of darkness.

In a Facebook post, Cllr North has also assured that police will reach out to Ukrainian and Russian communities.

“I’m sure I speak for everyone that lives in Test Valley today by saying that we stand with Ukraine and the Ukrainian people in their hour of darkness.

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“The fact that President Putin has unleashed a war on our continent against a friendly and democratic nation should be of grave concern to us all.

“To the security of Europe and the cause of freedom and democracy across the world.”

Cllr North said he couldn’t believe the actions of President Putin.

“I just want to echo the words of the Prime Minister when he addressed the Russian people in his speech at lunchtime - that he cannot believe that this is being done in their name.

“On that note, I’m pleased to report that I’ve been contacted by the Test Valley District Commander, Kory Thorne, this afternoon.

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“[He was] Advising me that the police will be reaching out to Ukrainian and Russian communities in Hampshire to mitigate any tensions in our county and to provide reassurance.”

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