THE IMAGE of an old lady clutching two large placards protesting against the invasion of Ukraine, being arrested by Russian soldiers, tears at the heartstrings.

Pensioner Yelena Osipova, who survived the Siege of Leningrad by the Nazis, carried a placard saying: ‘Soldier, drop your weapon and you will be a true hero!'

She’s a true hero, and a very brave one at that, heading out onto the streets of St Petersburg to voice her opposition to the war. She was determined to deliver her message, no matter what.

Anyone who has lived through a war, experienced its horrors, and wants to try and stop another one, should not be silenced. They should be listened to.