On July 4, British Member of Parliament Chris Evans MP visited the Ukrainian art exhibition currently on display at Caerphilly Library, where he met with artist Olesia Miftakhova and community leader Yuliia Bond.
The exhibition features works by Miftakhova, a Ukrainian refugee and artist, who introduced the MP to her pieces and the stories behind them. Evans showed a genuine interest in the artworks, asked thoughtful questions, and expressed appreciation for the role of cultural initiatives in fostering community understanding.
During the meeting, Yuliia Bond raised key concerns affecting Ukrainians in the UK, including visa uncertainty, employment challenges, and housing instability. She emphasised the importance of providing clarity on visa extensions and creating a pathway to Indefinite Leave to Remain to ensure long-term stability for displaced Ukrainians.
Chris Evans, who has actively supported Ukraine since 2022—raising over £864,000 in aid and visiting Kyiv in 2023 as part of a parliamentary delegation—reaffirmed his commitment to the community. He also suggested the possibility of organising a larger public art exhibition at the Penallta council building, the headquarters of Caerphilly County Borough Council.
The visit underlined the significance of political engagement, cultural expression, and ongoing dialogue in supporting the Ukrainian community in Wales.
