Steve Darling: I was honoured to stand with world leaders in Kyiv

On the finish of final month, I travelled to Kyiv, Ukraine’s capital metropolis, to commemorate the three-year mark of Russia’s ongoing warfare. As the USA’ involvement in supporting Ukraine seems to wane, I felt it a fantastic honour to face alongside world leaders in Maidan Sq.. Collectively, we paid tribute to the courageous troopers who’ve fallen and all those that have tragically misplaced their lives throughout this devastating battle.

This journey included 16 members of the UK Parliament. It was a deeply transferring expertise to share this second with so many Liberal Democrat colleagues, particularly two who beforehand served within the navy. The presence of worldwide leaders, comparable to Prime Ministers Mette Frederiksen of Denmark, Ulf Kristersson of Sweden, and Pedro Sanchez of Spain, alongside President Zelensky, demonstrated a united entrance of solidarity with Ukraine.

Admiral Sir Tony Radakin KCB ADC represented the UK Armed Forces at this vital occasion. Whereas ready for different political figures to reach, I had the chance to realize useful perception from him concerning the function of the British Armed Forces in response to Putin’s invasion and potential future developments.

The folks of Torbay have constantly proven their unwavering help for the folks of Ukraine as they defend their nation in opposition to Russia’s unlawful warfare. Throughout my time as an MP, this go to to Kyiv stands out as an important occasion the place I’ve had the privilege of representing our neighborhood. It’s essential that we stand in opposition to Putin now, or we danger additional aggression in opposition to different sovereign nations.

As a consultant of the Torbay neighborhood, it was profoundly touching to gentle a candle as an emblem of our help and remembrance. I additionally had the distinct pleasure of assembly Justin Trudeau, who demonstrated Canada’s solidarity with Ukraine by attending the service.

I’m reminded of the phrases of John F. Kennedy: “Let each nation know, whether or not it needs us effectively or sick, that we will pay any value, bear any burden, meet any hardship, help any buddy, oppose any foe to guarantee the survival and the success of liberty.”

Turning to home issues, I’m happy with the optimistic response to my petition in regards to the proposed modifications to Torbay and South Devon Cardiology Companies. Nonetheless, I stay deeply involved concerning the proposed short-term co-location of the Torbay and South Devon NHS Basis Belief’s (TSD) out-of-hours Major Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PPCI) companies on the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital.

This proposal, outlined in a February seventh, 2025, cardiology replace, has understandably induced nervousness among the many medical employees at Torbay Hospital. I’ve formally requested a briefing and supporting information to higher perceive the rationale behind this choice.

Particularly, I’m looking for proof that demonstrates improved entry, fairness, and sustainability of those important companies. I’ve additionally requested the complete phrases and circumstances of the proposed trial, as soon as finalised, and assurances that the PPCI companies will stay at Torbay and South Devon if t at steve.darling.mp@parliament.uk if I will be of help. To remain knowledgeable about my work as your MP, I invite you to subscribe to my weekly e-newsletter at www.torbaylibdems.org.uk/e-newsletter. The pilot program fails to realize its meant enhancements in affected person outcomes and expertise.

Any modifications to important companies comparable to PPCI have to be based mostly on sturdy proof and obtain the complete help of the native medical neighborhood. I’ve referred to as for an pressing briefing to realize readability on the reasoning behind this choice and to make sure that affected person care stays the utmost precedence.

I consider that these plans must be halted except it may be definitively proven that they won’t jeopardise affected person security. If you have not already, I urge you to signal the petition at

https://www.torbaylibdems.org.uk/campaigns/save-our-out-of-hours-coronary-services. 

Thanks for taking the time to learn this replace. As at all times, please don’t hesitate to contact me through e-mail.