A priest in Liverpool has said Ukrainians have flocked to his church to pray for their families.
Rev. Dr Taras Khomych spoke out about his worries for his family who are still in Ukraine as they remain in their homes as Russia invades.
Speaking from Liverpool's Ukrainian Catholic Parish, which is based at St Sebastian's RC Church in Fairfield, he told the ECHO, that his parish is 'in a time of crisis' as his greatest fears become a reality.
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He added that his own family are 'scared and don't know what is going on' due to conflicting messages.
In the early hours of Thursday, February 24, Russian forces launched a full-scale attack on Ukraine, with its military hitting the country from the north, east and south.
Explosions and air-raid sirens were heard in the capital, Kyiv, throughout Thursday as Russian planes and jets flew above.
At around 5.45pm Russian forces seized the Chernobyl power plant, the site of the world's worst nuclear accident, after a "fierce battle".
Pictures also emerged of a number of people being arrested in anti-war protests in Moscow and St. Petersburg in Russia.
Just ten days ago, Rev. Khomych said he feared a Russian invasion was imminent and worried for his family who live in Lviv, which is in the western part of Ukraine.
He added: "I called them this morning and this evening [Thursday], they are okay at the moment. They told me they are scared, they don't know what is going on because they are getting conflicting messages from everyone.
"Things are changing from moment to moment.
"They are looking to stay in the area for as long as they can. People from Ukraine often feel very home sick when they leave, so that is what they are doing."
Since the news of Russia's invasion, Rev. Khomych said he has received many calls and messages from Ukrainians living in Liverpool.
He added: "They are scared for their families and for their home. A lot of them came to me because they want to come together and pray, which is what we do when we are in a time of crisis."
Rev. Khomych has organised some group prayer sessions at St Sebastian's RC Church and is encouraging people to "pray for peace".
When asked what message he would have for Ukrainians worried for people back home, Rev. Khomych said: "First of all do not panic, it is important to stay calm, even in this very difficult situation. Secondly I would say to pray for peace and help Ukraine in whatever way you can.
"I know there are a few dedicated pots and pages where people can donate."
The priest said he was happy the UK Government supported Ukraine and made a quick decision to do so.
Rev. Khomych added that he couldn't thank the people of Liverpool enough for their support over the last 24 hours.
He told The ECHO: "I can't thank the people of Liverpool enough for all of their help. They supported Ukraine and many of my colleagues at the university expressed their sympathies."
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