London Mayor leads march and vigil for Ukraine
Thousands have gathered for the event in the capital
Last updated 29th May 2022
The Mayor of London has led a march through the capital to show solidarity with those caught up in the conflict in Ukraine.
Crowds held banners reading “stop (Vladimir) Putin’s war”, “no fly zone” and “solidarity with Ukraine” and sang as police officers followed.
Chants of “we stand with Ukraine” rang out as traffic behind was brought to a standstill.
Speaking ahead of the demonstration, Mr Khan said he was there to condemn Russia’s “barbaric aggression”.
WATCH: Our reporter Tom Clabon is in Trafalgar Square for us:
London Mayor Sadiq Khan told the PA news agency: “Londoners over the last few weeks have shown that we’re opening our arms to Ukrainian refugees, whether it’s by donating money to those charities doing a brilliant job in Ukraine or by opening our homes to those fleeing Ukraine.
“It is important throughout the next few days, weeks to make it far, far easier, and much more easier for those who are fleeing Ukraine to come here.
“You compare our Government’s actions versus the actions of Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Poland, it’s embarrassing.
“We’ve got be doing much more.”
The Mayor of London was among a whole host of speakers at the event today, including his counterpart in Kyiv, who addressed the people of London via videolink.
WATCH: Sadiq Khan says Londoners have responded to calls from President Zelenskyy of Ukraine for countries to stand up and show support for his people
When and where?
The 'London Stands with Ukraine' event gets underway at Park Lane at 2pm, with the vigil starting in Trafalgar Square at 3pm.
The march will go via Piccadilly Circus, where Yoko Ono's 'IMAGINE PEACE' artwork will be displayed.
You can hear all the latest UK news on the hour, every hour.