As Plaid Cymru leader Adam Price touches down in one the world's most volatile regions, his visit to the Ukraine has prompted widespread condemnation from opposing party members.

Mr Price's decision to join an anti-war delegation made up of trade union and cross-party representatives is an attempt to show solidarity with workers and other minority sectors affected by the tensions between Ukraine and Russia. 

During their visit, the delegation will report back to British grassroots organisations, countering the disinformation campaign being waged by the Kremlin.

“The more the Ukrainian people are threatened by Russian aggression and imperialism, the more urgent it becomes for socialists, democrats and internationalists to stand shoulder to shoulder in solidarity with them - in defence of their right to national self-determination and in defiance of Putin’s warmongering," he said.

But Conservative Senedd Member Gareth Davies had called the visit “reckless” and “dangerous” as Russian forces muster on the country’s border.

 “It's reckless for a Welsh government minister and the leader of a party to not heed strong government advice and just wade into Ukraine regardless.

"I hope you get back to Wales safely, but please justify this on return and explain who paid for this dangerous trip.”

Adam Price later responded to criticism of the trip, saying he had travelled to Ukraine in a personal capacity to show that Wales can reach out in meaningful ways.

“I can see that my visit here has caused quite a controversy,” he said, "but to clarify, I'm here in a personal capacity, paid from my own pocket.

"I felt I had a choice – I comment from afar behind a phone or laptop, or come here to connect and understand on a human, meaningful level.

“I'm obviously not here to solve the conflict, but to show solidarity in a time where real, meaningful connection with real people means far more than a tweet, a press release or just another soundbite from a politician at home in their comfort zone.

“If we want to see Wales truly connect with the world, then we must reach out in meaningful ways, even if that may feel uncomfortable at times. Mewn Undod Mae Nerth.” (trans. in unity lies strength)