LEADERS of all parties in Trafford Council are unanimous in their condemnation of Vladimir Putin for Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

The leaders made a statement on Monday as the conflict in Eastern Europe entered its fifth day, with sanctions on the Russians escalating and a number of countries supplying weapons to the Ukrainians.

In it, council leader Cllr Andrew Western, plus opposition leaders Cllr Daniel Jerrome, Cllr Julian Newgrosh and Cllr Nathan Evans, spoke of their sadness and shock at the 'deplorable' decision to invade.

According to the statement, the Ukrainian flag is to be flown at Trafford's town hall as a symbol of support to those in the country, as well as those in Trafford with links to it.

The statement reads: "On behalf of Trafford Council and the borough of Trafford, we want to express how deeply saddened and shocked we are by the situation in Ukraine.

"The decision by Vladimir Putin to invade Ukraine is an act of unjustified aggression and the deliberate targeting of innocent people is deplorable.

"As a democratic nation, we stand for the right for countries to defend their borders and live in peace.

"Our thoughts are with the people of Ukraine and with those Ukrainians who call Trafford their home as we hope for a peaceful and swift settlement to this situation."