As a member of the House of Commons Defence Committee (HCDC) Mark participated in a recent Committee visit to the strategic port city of Odesa. The purpose of the visit was to gather information on the conduct of the war, but also to demonstrate our firm support for the struggle of the Ukrainian people, for freedom and democracy.

During the visit, the Committee met with leading Ukrainian military commanders and politicians, including Gennadiy Trukhanov, the Mayor of Odesa (with whom we are pictured here, on the city’s landmark “Potemkin Steps”).

Commenting on the recent trip to Odesa, Mark Francois MP said:

“The trip was a very eye-opening experience and hugely worthwhile. Everywhere we went, we met Ukrainians who were extremely grateful for the strong support they have received from Britain, in the face of Putin’s illegal and barbaric invasion of their country. The committee learnt a significant amount about the current challenges that both civilians and soldiers face within the city, and it is clear that their resolve remains absolute."