The Yukon government is donating $50,000 to the Canadian Red Cross to support humanitarian efforts in Ukraine and neighbouring countries in response to Russia’s attack on the democratic nation.

“The hearts and minds of Yukoners are with the people of Ukraine as they face the turmoil of having their home invaded by Russian forces,” Premier Sandy Silver said Tuesday.

“Our government stands in solidarity with Ukrainians around the world. We thank the Canadian Red Cross, the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement for providing much needed support during this crisis.”

Donations will support the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement’s work to provide relief through health facilities and supporting families in the region.

Support is needed for the humanitarian and refugee response, including co-ordination for moving people to areas where they can receive food, clothing, shelter, psycho-social support and other assistance.

As a symbol of solidarity, the Ukrainian flag will fly full-mast at the Yukon Government Main Administration Building until Friday.

The Canadian Red Cross is a trusted partner by Canadian governments with deep and long-standing relations with the international Red Cross movement.

Yukoners who would like to contribute to the Ukraine humanitarian crisis are encouraged to donate to the Canadian Red Cross.

The Northwest Territories will match donations of residents to the Canadian Red Cross up to a total of $50,000, while B.C. donated $1 million to the Canadian Red Cross. Alberta plans to donate $1 million toward humanitarian aid efforts in Ukraine, while Ontario will provide $300,000 to the Canada-Ukraine Foundation.

Mayor Laura Cabott said Monday Whitehorse residents stand in solidarity with the people of Ukraine.

In a statement at the beginning of that evening’s council meeting, Cabott noted the city raised the Ukraine flag earlier Monday as a sign of that solidarity.

“The City of Whitehorse’s support at this point may be symbolic, but it is important to stand up for democracy and peace and against hatred and violence,” Cabott said.

“We stand with the people of Ukraine and the Ukrainian Canadians in our community, and we hope for a swift end to this unprovoked attack.”

Cabott said Whitehorse stands with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in calling on Russia to end all hostile actions against Ukraine and to leave immediately.

The city believes in peace and respect for the neighbours of sovereign nations, she added, and “thus demand an immediate stop to the Russian aggression in Ukraine.”

She concluded her statement by thanking Roman Hermak and Shelley Williamson of the local Ukrainian community for lending the city the Ukrainian flag that’s flying at city hall.