Words below from my husband – who is of Ukrainian descent – and has family living in Ukraine

Tears flowed at this morning’s rally of solidarity with the Ukrainian people held at Parliament House gardens in Hobart.

A number of people spoke of their shock and disbelief at Putin’s unprovoked and unjustified attack on the peaceful and peace loving people of Ukraine.

Members and friends of the Tasmanian Ukrainian community remembered their families and friends in Ukraine who are losing their independence and freedom and enduring unimaginable hardship at the hands of a ruthless, selfish and greedy despot.

The whole of Europe and indeed the rest of the world are now threatened by this man who, unless we resist, will be emboldened to encroach further on other peoples freedoms.

Spread the word of solidarity and support for the Ukrainian people and never forget that they are a peaceful people who want nothing more than to choose their own destiny and to practice their culture and beliefs.

Long live Ukraine!