WALES is a "nation of sanctuary" that is ready to play its part is support of Ukraine and its people.

The Minister for Social Justice, Jane Hutt, held a conference on Tuesday to provide an update about help and support for Ukraine from Wales.

 

War in Ukraine. Image: PA

War in Ukraine. Image: PA

 

"The terrible events in Ukraine continue to dominate our thoughts," Ms Hutt said.

"Wales stands in solidarity with Ukraine and its people.

"We've seen desperate pictures of people trying to flee.

"Tens of thousands have crossed into neighbouring countries.

"We are ready to help, Wales' links with Ukraine are long and deep. We stand ready to offer practical support and assistance."

 

Social Justice Minister Jane Hutt.

Social Justice Minister Jane Hutt.

 

Ms Hutt added that council's in Wales are getting ready to house refugees fleeing the invasion of Ukraine.

She said: "Local authorities across Wales have been receiving offers from those with spare rooms to house refugees.

"We don't know when they will come.

"We are ready to play our part in response to this crisis.

"We have seen an extraordinary response from ordinary people wanting to donate items.

"The best way to help is by donating money if you can."

She said there is a dedicated page on the Welsh Government website about how to donate.

Ms Hutt pointed to how refugees from Afghanistan had been welcomed to Wales shows that it can be done for the people of Ukraine.

"The response from the Welsh people has been phenomenal," she said.

"We opened the doors to families who came. "More are due to arrive in the coming weeks, it's ongoing.

"I've met with the South Wales Afghan Society recently to hear their feelings. "They say how wonderful it is to have this welcome. We are a nation of sanctuary.

"We wish to use our experience - going back to the Syrian resettlement. We have done it, we can do it again."

She added that it was impossible to say how many refugees could need to come to Wales.

"It is very much the local authorities and communities who will have the responsibility to welcome the refugees as they come through," she said.

"It's a big logistical effort."

Ms Hutt added: "We want to make sure that we can open our doors as a nation of sanctuary. It would be foolish to say a number, we just want to be open."