PCS support for Ukraine
PCS is proud to be affiliated to the Ukraine Solidarity Campaign (USC), which seeks to organise solidarity and provide information in support of the Ukrainian labour movement within trade unions and the wider labour movement.
The Ukraine Solidarity Campaign organises solidarity and provides information in support of the Ukrainian labour movement in two main ways: by organising and supporting events around the country in support of Ukraine, and by fundraising to deliver practical, lifesaving equipment and materials directly to Ukrainian trade unionists on or near the frontline.
The latest events will take place to mark the fourth anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, with a demonstration on Saturday 21 February from 2pm at the Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain, Piccadilly Circus, London, W1J 9HS, and an event in Parliament on Wednesday 4 March from 6pm in the Wilson Room, Portcullis House.
Practical support is delivered to trade unionists through the Confederation of Free Trade Unions of Ukraine – the Ukrainian equivalent of the TUC – and individual trade unions such as the Independent Trade Union of Miners of Ukraine.
Recent aid has been sent to the 10th Mine Rescue Squad, firefighters, and rescue workers in Donetsk oblast in eastern Ukraine, near the frontline. The work of the Rescue Squads includes not only operations in the mines that they have kept functioning but also fighting fires and carrying out wartime rescue operations in towns and villages under direct Russian artillery and missile attack.
Many rescue workers and miners have been killed, some deliberately targeted by Russian strikes. They continue to work in extremely difficult conditions with very limited resources. USC is currently planning to deliver the following to Ukraine this month:
- Pickup trucks for union members defending Ukraine and for those evacuating the wounded
- Equipment for the 10th Mining Rescue Squad to repair damaged vehicles
- Winter clothing for freezing frontline conditions
- Sleeping bags, heaters, gas burners, and portable power stations
- Medical supplies for stabilisation points, including trauma dressings, chest seals, tourniquets, and burn dressings.
Every donation goes directly to Ukrainian trade unionists on or near the frontline. Every pound strengthens workers’ resistance to the Russian invasion.
PCS has agreed to contribute £2,200 to the latest mission, to provide the medical aid requested.
Members can also donate via Crowdfunder or join USC.