Invasion Day +36 More disarray in the Kremlin as Putin becomes increasingly paranoid, sacking ministers, demanding payments for gas and oil in roubles and calling for help wherever he can find it. The west must continue to defend freedom and democracy against the greatest threat it has ever faced. Still the incredible and brave Ukrainians hang on under the most appalling viciousness and brutality of one man and those he has brainwashed. We acknowledge all those Russian soldiers, an increasing number, some even in the personal guard, who have refused to fight this war; a brave stance, braver those Russians who have fled from the front line, you are right to seek refuge against such a monster.
We have more front line footage from Ukraine today in a harrowing but extremely moving film shot in the streets of a Ukrainian home town and thank you Anna for sending it to us. The bravery of Ukraine is outstanding and the suffering is heart breaking but the film is a testament to the power and bravery of the film makers and the people. We give the necessary warning about the shocking nature of the content but implore our readers to view it wherever they can. We stand with Ukraine.
Today's Letters:
From Anna, a refugee now from Kharkiv, Ukraine
Dear Hoggy,
I am sorry I have ben quiet for a while but the situation in my country is really depressing and I have had a meltdown because I worry about my parents all the time. Russia is shelling the city every day and the area where my parents live has been suffering too.
I have had to reapply for the visa for the UK again yesterday because my initial application has been lost. This all is really depressing.
I want you to see this film if you can bear to watch it: it is very moving but brings tears to my eyes. This was my beautiful country.
There is good news from Kate in Poland, she has found a sponsor and has applied for a visa to the UK so she waits to hear. We have also found sponsors for five more women. They will be staying in Yorkshire and will try to find a job asap.
I am going to prepare New Life starter kits for them as they will be travelling with a backpack only and not even having shampoo or a towel. I thought it would be a good way to make them feel human beings again. I was thinking of some basic supplies such as hygienic products and towels and adaptors etc.
I have been talking with them and they only have one pair of winter shoes which they were wearing when they fled Kharkiv so they will need some shoes or trainers to wear when thy get to England and some clothes at least to look decent for job interviews.
Please keep up your great work for us all won't you? It means so much. Thank you.
Anna
Dear Anna,
Anna Kharkiva
(Hogsward No 8)
Of course we will. Our correspondents continue to write in and to offer support. I have asked today in the title for help with the 'New LIfe Kits' you are putting together and if anyone can help we will ask for cash donations to 'Hoggys Fund' to help you with this. What a fabulous idea, so thoughtful.
We would like to see if we can put some cash gifts into these kits for the five women to help them with shoes and clothes maybe and I will put the appeal out to our correspondents
The film is awful but incredibly moving. Thank you for sharing it.
I cannot believe the UK lost your visa application. Our government needs a big kick up the rear end. It is a national disgrace. We will write again to the government.
We are all so worried for you and your family, you must be totally heart-broken. It is terrible.
The suffering of Ukraine is beyond belief.
Please do not give up you are a hero too and you receive my 'Hogsward' today (Number 8 so far) for your stand for your country and your help to the people seeking safety. I shall spread sunflowers seeds for you and your family in a special patch in our office grounds.
You are making a big difference and helping us to help Ukraine. You are very worthy for our eighth Hogsward.
We are continuing to write and speak to people every day and know that everyone's appeals will eventually be heard..
We do feel the same helplessness as you here, you are a very special person and we long for you and your family to be reunited but we do appreciate the suffering tyou are undergoing. We send you every wish we can to stay strong.
With all our wishes Anna,
Hoggy
(Anna is not her real name but we will reveal it when it is safe for her and her family to do so.)
'HOGGY'S APPEAL FOR NEW LIFE KIT CASH!'
Can you help Anna with this great idea of welcome? If so please can you let me know and I will send you the Hoggy's Fund details? A few pounds from us all will be an amazing show of solidarity and help wouldn't it? Thank you all. Hoggy.)
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