Sandwell politicians have come out in support of the people of Ukraine, as the Russian invasion enters its fifth day of conflict.

At time of writing, more than 70 Ukrainian soldiers have died in Okhtyrka, a city between Kharkiv and Kyiv, after heavy bombardment by Russian forces  the past 24 hours, according to local officials.

Images show a Russian military convoy north of Kyiv to be about 40 miles (64km) long. in an area north-west of Kyiv. Yesterday it was reported the convoy was 17 miles (27km) long, according to the US satellite-company Maxar.

On Tuesday, Prime Minister Boris Johnson will fly to visit Poland and Estonia, who occupy Nato’s border with Russia. He has said Vladimir Putin will “feel the consequences” for invading Ukraine.

Kerrie Carmichael, leader of Sandwell council, said: “Our sympathies are with the people of Ukraine, a sovereign and democratic country that has been invaded.

“[Vladimir] Putin’s Russia is trying to take away the rights of this European country.  This council is united and condemns these actions and stands in solidarity with the people of Ukraine not forgetting the Russian people who are demonstrating against this war.”

Councillor Archer Williams (Cons, Princes End), and interim leader at Sandwell Conservatives, said: “I would like to express my deep sorrow for the loss of life in an unnecessary war taking place for no explicit reasons other than territorial occupation.

“I am sorry to see that Russia is engaging in this war; we hoped these days had long past with the fall of the Soviet Union.

“Sandwell Conservatives commend the efforts of our government to combat the situation. We condemn the war crimes taking place and pray for a peaceful solution.”

It comes as almost 1,000 people attended a vigil at Victoria Square, Birmingham, on Sunday, in solidarity with the people of Ukraine.

Some of those gathered held placards saying ‘Support Ukrainian Refugees’ ‘Stop Putin, Stop War’, while flags of Ukraine were waved.

Joanna Kiedrowska, 45, attended the vigil with her two sons, Samuel and Joseph.

The Polish-born family, from Hockley, were dismayed by the actions of Vladimir Putin.

Ms Kiedrowska said: “We are in the 21st Century. We want a peaceful Ukraine, and for them to raise their children in freedom.

“Could you imagine if those images being broadcast out from Kyiv were happening right here in Birmingham?”

Other politicians, including Andy Street, Mayor for West Midlands, Ian Ward, leader of Birmingham city council, also attended.

Attendees also donated hundreds of bags of essential goods to help the people of Ukraine who have fled to the Polish border. It was organised by Angelika Frankowska, aged 20, from Wednesbury, who said she still has family in the war-torn nation.