Don't forget us

Freezing, war-torn Ukraine's message to the West

-  CHRIS HUGHES

UKRAINIAN troops battling Russian invaders as the winter bites have sent a Christmas message to the West: "Please don't forget us, we need your support."

They fear the IsraelHamas war is diverting crucial attention, as well as support and supplies, from their 22-month struggle.

Trench warfare in eastern Ukraine is becoming increasingly brutal as temperatures plunge below zero.

One soldier, Petro, said: "The best Christmas present you can give us is an assurance of continued support. We need help.

There are doubts over US support after Republicans blocked a £50billion emergency military aid package for Ukraine. The US Department of Defense has admitted it is coming to the end of funds available to send to the war-torn country.