WEST Somerset MP Rachel Gilmour visited Ukraine for a second time, as part of a UK Parliamentary delegation to the Yalta European Strategy (YES) Conference as the fourth anniversary of Russia’s invasion was marked.

Ms Gilmour saw the effects of four years of war on Ukraine, and was determined the issue should not slip off the international radar in light of recent developments in the Middle East.

She heard from those on the front lines, both in battles themselves and in diplomatic efforts which continue behind the scenes.

The visit started in Moldova’s capital Chisinau, where the delegation was told of threats posed by the Russian state toward the country.

The delegation went on to visit a newly-opened port in Odesa, Ukraine’s third-largest city, and vital pathway to the Black Sea, and, from there, the Mediterranean.

Mrs Gilmour heard of sustained attacks on Odesa by the Russian military, which regularly strikes the port and its energy infrastructure as well as residential buildings.

The group moved on to Chernobyl, to hear of the dangerous implications of Russian strikes on the area.

Later, a closed-door briefing was given by the Ukrainian Special Services (GUR) on their key role in the conflict, causing disruption to Russian supply lines and playing a leading role in countering Russian disinformation campaigns.

In Kyiv, Mrs Gilmour met Parliamentarians, and members of the Ukrainian executive branch, hearing about issues of justice, and how the UK Parliament and Ukrainian representatives can work together.

The YES conference heard from leading figures about how Western countries can step up in support of Ukraine.

Meeting with representatives of the Office of the President, much of which was in confidence, Mrs Gilmour said she was again struck by the staggering effort required to maintain a cohesive defence, continue collaboration with the ‘coalition of the willing’, and stand up to negotiation demands from both Russia and the United States.

Mrs Gilmour said on her return: “It was truly inspiring to return to Ukraine as part of a cross-party delegation, and to be present at the commemoration of the fourth anniversary of Russia’s barbaric re-invasion.

“Such an occasion is testament to the bravery and heroism of the Ukrainian people.

“Until the European Union and Western partners realise this conflict is more than just an existential threat to Ukraine, we will continue to leave this war in stasis.

“If Russia is allowed to succeed in Ukraine, where will it turn its attentions to next?

“I remain concerned about the United States’ president cosying up to Vladimir Putin.

“While nobody can object to negotiations and diplomacy in the pursuit of peace, I am deeply worried that Trump’s close relationship to Putin will be a barrier to a just and lasting settlement.

“Based on what I have seen and heard in Ukraine, I am unfortunately convinced that such a closeness will actually prolong the war, rather than curtail it.

“We must keep Ukraine in the spotlight, and that is what I am resolutely going to do.

“Slava Ukraini!”