As the unlawful and deplorable invasion of Ukraine continues, I wish to underline the University of Glasgow's solidarity with the people of Ukraine and denounce the actions of the Government of the Russian Federation.

The reports and images of unimaginable suffering shock us all, and the University is doing all it can to support those impacted.

In recent days, the Russian Union of Rectors has published a statement supporting the Russian Federation Government’s invasion of Ukraine. Like many universities across the world, we are appalled by this unjustifiable statement. As a result, we have taken the decision to suspend our partnerships with Russian and Belarusian academic institutions. We will also suspend any Russian and Belarusian partner engagement across events or activities that the University is hosting or leading. This is not a decision taken lightly, and I hope our community can understand and support this action.

Our priority will always be the safety and wellbeing of our students and colleagues, and we continue to offer support to those here in Glasgow, whilst also extending aid to all those affected. As you have seen in recent communications, we have provided additional hardship funds for students directly affected, and we are actively exploring with partner Universities in Europe, and with organisations such as the Council for At-Risk Academics (Cara), what we can do to support Ukrainian students and academics. We will also continue to make representations to the UK Government to support Ukrainian refugees wishing to come to the UK.

The compassion and sadness of those who attended and supported the Vigil for Peace in Ukraine at our Memorial Chapel last week showed the true extent of hurt and sympathy across our community.

I am proud that the University is such a diverse, caring community, and am deeply saddened to learn of a small number of personal attacks on social media against Russian students and colleagues. If you experience or witness harassment of any kind, please report it via Dignity at Work and Study.

We are one Glasgow team, and we care for and respect one another, inspired by the values of the people, partners and societies we work with. Now, more than ever, we must live by our values and show our deepest respect to all in our community and beyond with links to Ukraine and Russia who oppose the actions of the Government of the Russian Federation.

This remains an evolving situation and we will keep you advised as we take any necessary action in response.

With best wishes,

Anton Muscatelli, Principal and Vice-Chancellor 

First published: 9 March 2022

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University tower with flag of Ukraine superimposed