Our statement on Ukraine

All of us at Ashurst are united with governments and fellow members of the legal and wider business community in condemning the Russian invasion of Ukraine as a blatant violation of international law and the UN Charter. We stand firmly with the Ukrainian people at this time.

It was widely reported last week that we took an early position in relation to ceasing and winding down our Russian business. Our business purpose and values define who we are and why we exist, and we will seek to exercise our voice and our collective commercial power and influence to support the rule of law and the values that we all hold dear.

We have taken a policy decision to not act for any new or existing Russian clients, Russian state-owned entities or individuals identified as having close connections to President Putin, whether or not they are subject to sanctions, and wherever they are located in the world. We have also decided to wind down all of our existing Russian client mandates, while acting in accordance with our professional and legal obligations.

Care for our people and communities is core to our values and culture at Ashurst, and our thoughts remain with all those in Ukraine and elsewhere who have been directly impacted by these shocking events. We are proud to be part of a collaborative group of firms who are working with non-governmental organisations on the ground, ensuring access to pro bono legal services and other resources as needed. Our people are making personal contributions, and Ashurst has also made a donation to support our humanitarian efforts to assist vulnerable children and families affected by the conflict.

We continue to hope for, and will support all efforts towards, a peaceful resolution.

Paul Jenkins & Karen Davies