Public urged to ‘remember Ukraine’s fight for freedom’ on Armistice Day
The foreign secretary has called on the public to “remember Ukraine’s fight for freedom” as Europe marks 104 years since the end of the First World War.
James Cleverly will attend an Armistice Day service in Paris on Friday, hosted by President Emmanuel Macron – the first since Russia’s full-scale invasion of its neighbour.
He will meet French foreign minister Catherine Colonna to discuss the two countries’ “shared challenges”, including support for Ukraine, improving energy security and small boat crossings in the Channel.
And he will spend time with Chelsea Pensioners, who have been fundraising in France for the Armed Services community.
‘Peace has been shattered’
Speaking ahead of the trip, Mr Cleverly said: “Since 1918 we have marked Armistice Day and paid tribute to the brave men and women who have served to give us peace.
“Yet as we salute our troops this year, this peace has been shattered by a Russian aggressor.
“As we honour the war dead of the past, we also remember Ukraine’s fight for freedom today.”
He added: “The UK stands steadfast with our friends and allies in defence of freedom and democracy in Ukraine, and I am proud to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with a historic ally in Paris.”
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The foreign secretary will also speak at the Paris Peace Forum – a gathering of international leaders, where the Ukraine war is also expected to be discussed.
A number of events will take place across the UK, including at The National Memorial Arboretum, with the country falling silent at 11am to remember those who have died in conflicts.
