Nicola Sturgeon says that Putin “has never looked weaker or more insecure”

Nicola Sturgeon told party members during her speech at the SNP conference in Aberdeen that Vladimir Putin “has never looked weaker or more insecure”.  

The First Minister condemned the “despicable” invasion of Ukraine and the renewed bombing of ten cities today. She pointed out the contrast between Putin and the resilience of the Ukrainian people and leader Volodymyr Zelensky, adding that the “war crimes” of the Russian President must be held be account. 

Sturgeon told members: “We live on a continent with a so-called strong man, the one who has never looked weaker or more insecure has launched a brutal invasion of his neighbour that should be unimaginable in 21st century Europe.  

“For the people of Ukraine, it is all too real. Everyday there are atrocities and killings. Today the capital Kyiv and cities across the country are under renewed bombardment.  

“Despicable war crimes have been committed. And conference let us be clear, these are war crimes that for which Vladimir Putin must be held to account. 

“The contrast between Putin and the people of Ukraine could not be starker. From President Zelensky to the sacrifice of ordinary citizens, personified here on Saturday by our guest Lesia Vasylenko.”