Calls for Kensington street where Russian embassy is to be renamed in solidarity with Ukraine

By Hannah Neary, Local Democracy Reporter

The historic London street where the Russian embassy is based could be renamed ‘Zelensky Avenue’ after the Ukrainian leader if an MP has her way.

Lib Dem MP Layla Moran is calling for Kensington and Chelsea council to rename Kensington Palace Gardens as a gesture of solidarity with Ukraine and its president Volodomyr Zelensky.

The leafy street boasting several luxury mansions is one of the most expensive in London and home to Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich, who is looking to sell the club.

Other cities in Europe plan to change the street names linked to Russian embassies locations.

A street in Vilnius, Lithuania, is going to be renamed ‘Heroes of Ukraine Street’ and Tirana, Albania, will rename theirs ‘Free Ukraine Street’.

The Russian embassy in London has been the target for anti-war protestors since Russia’s attack on Ukraine last month.

The building’s walls have been daubed with drawings of Ukranian flags, chalk-written messages, eggs and fake blood.

Layla Moran MP, the Lib Dem’s foreign affairs spokesperson, said: “Britain must shame Putin at every possible opportunity. Everyone visiting or writing to the embassy should be reminded of Putin’s murderous and destructive invasion of Ukraine.

“This small but meaningful gesture would match the outpouring of support from Londoners.

“Their offers to help refugees fleeing the horror of war has been truly inspiring and shown the capital to be a beacon of solidarity with Ukrainian people.

“By changing this road name we are showing yet again that London stands with Ukraine.

“I hope now the Government will do their part and ensure refugees from Ukraine are given safety here in Britain.”

The Lib Dems have made the appeal as Ukranian president Volodomyr Zelensky was set to address MPs in Parliament later on Tuesday.

He is expected to make an unprecedented and historic speech via videolink at around 5pm, the House of Commons has announced.

Kensington and Chelsea is also home to the Ukranian embassy in Holland Park, where people have left flowers, flags and anti-Putin posters.

Lib Dem councillors in Tower Hamlets called for streets near the proposed new Chinese embassy to be renamed ‘Tiananmen Square’ and ‘Hong Kong Road’ last year.

A Kensington and Chelsea council spokesperson said: “We share the world’s anger at Putin’s assault on Ukraine and are horrified at the plight of the men, women and children caught up in the conflict.

“It is actions rather than symbolism that they desperately need now.

“Kensington and Chelsea already shares a special bond with the people of Ukraine, with the country’s rich culture and history represented on our streets through the likes of the Ukrainian Social Club and Statue of Saint Volodymyr on Holland Park Avenue.

“Our borough is also home to the Ukrainian Embassy and we have written to the Ambassador to offer any support we might be able to provide.

“Just like we did for Afghanistan last summer, this council stands ready to support people fleeing conflict and persecution.”

Pictured top: Entrance to Kensington Palace Gardens (image: Google)