'My fear support is eroding for Ukraine'

TWO years on from Russia's invasion of Ukraine, two men are gathering their latest haul of supplies to take from Plymouth in their latest odyssey across Europe.

- ANDY PHILLIPS

It will be the ninth trip for city businessman Andreas Evangelou, while his efforts have been bolstered by Maksym Litvinov, a former resident of Kharkiv who now lives in Plymouth.

Between them and the generosity of their supporters - they have delivered nine caravans, seven 4x4 vehicles and more than 12 tonnes of humanitarian supplies to Ukraine, as well as establishing a network of contacts from Cornwall to Kharkiv.

But with support from western nations beginning to dwindle, and the world's attention becoming focused on Gaza, there is concern that the gains which have been made are at risk of being lost.

Andreas said: "Two years ago I was shocked at what I saw with the invitation of Ukraine, so I decided to drive there and see if I could help.

It's virtually impossible to stop my voluntary humanitarian work now." He added: "Obviously it's not in the news as much anymore, and there are other factors going on in the world which are superseding the Ukrainian war, but sadly things have not progressed and have got worse.

"It's a shame that people seem to have forgotten about it. I worry that there are people in this country, and even in Plymouth, who might think 'why should we spend money on Ukraine, and 'why are there Ukrainian refugees still here." Maksym still has contact with friends serving on the frontline, but fears support is beginning to erode from the west, strengthening Vladimir Putin's arm.