STUDENTS gathered in Southampton today to stand in solidarity with millions of people caught up in the fighting that has broken out across Ukraine.

They assembled in Jubilee Plaza, part of Southampton University's Highfield campus, to hear an address by Ben Dolbear, president of the university's Students’ Union (SUSU).

A vigil was held for those who have lost their lives since the invasion started last month.

Students were encouraged to bring flags and placards as well as wearing blue and yellow - the colours of Ukraine's national flag.

The demonstration was organised by SUSU, the Amnesty Society, Southampton Politics Society,

Southampton Polish Society, Raise and Give Society, English Society, Italian Society, Lithuanian

Society, Russian Speaking Society, and Wessex Scene.

Mr Dolbear said: "The student movement has been a leader of social change across much of modern history.

"For us to stay silent now would be an act of complicity. Today we are proud to gather in support of peace, democracy, and humanity.”

Earlier this week the Politics Society and the Amnesty Society collected donations for the people of Ukraine.

Students donated boxes of blankets, hats and gloves, non-perishable food as well as toiletries, baby formula and other items, all of which were donated to the Polish Club in Southampton.

In a statement issued on February 25, shortly after the invasion, Mr Dolbear said: "At SUSU, we cherish the value of standing strong for all of our students.

"On behalf of the entire team at SUSU, I am horrified to watch the unfolding of an unprovoked attack by Vladimir Putin on the people of Ukraine.

"We all watch in awe of the brave Ukrainian and Russian civilians speaking out against tyranny and military aggression.”

SUSU is planning to organise a fundraiser to support the safety and wellbeing of children who have become separated from their families during the conflict.