Rachel Gilmour MP returns from ‘inspiring’ visit to Ukraine

PHOTO: Rachel Gilmour MP joins other UK MPs alongside Ruslan Stefanchuk, the Speaker of the Parliament of Ukraine

As the only non-Government MP on the delegation, Mrs. Gilmour spent five days visiting a number of sites in and around the Kyiv Oblast region, on a trip planned to deepen ties between the UK and Ukraine. 

Whilst on the trip, Mrs. Gilmour visited a drone factory and military training centre, where she saw first-hand the cutting-edge developments in drone technology – produced to defend Ukrainian men and women on the frontlines. 

Tiverton and Minehead’s MP also attended the Yalta European Strategy (YES) Conference. Alongside other international officials, including senior UK and US officials, Mrs. Gilmour was involved in roundtable discussions about the future of Ukraine and the fight against Russia’s illegal invasion. It was at the YES Conference where Rachel Gilmour also had a confidential meeting with President Zelensky’s key advisor to discuss the likely outcomes of the war and new wave of UK military support. 

Outside of formal meetings, Mrs. Gilmour said she was “incredibly moved” when visiting the Save Ukraine centre - an organisation which offers programmes for rescued children and families across the country. This was followed by a visit to the rehabilitation hospital, where she spoke with staff and injured soldiers.

Following her visit to Ukraine, Rachel Gilmour MP said:

“I was privileged to be part of a UK Parliamentary Delegation to Ukraine earlier this month. Alongside other MPs, I saw first-hand the strength of the Ukrainian people, who are united in their defiance against Russian aggression. I was inspired by the resilience of local adults and children in Kyiv and incredibly moved by the touching tributes to loved ones lost during conflict.

I know I speak for everyone here in the Tiverton and Minehead constituency when I say that we hope for a lasting and just peace settlement as soon as possible. We must continue to stand with Ukraine.

Slava Ukraini."