War in Ukraine 

Full Statement

Updated 12 December 2025

The war in Ukraine is of immense concern. As an international University with a deep commitment to social responsibility and democratic value we condemn strongly any acts of aggression. We are deeply saddened about the ongoing conflict and its humanitarian impact and express our sorrow and sympathy for all those affected. 

The safety, security and wellbeing of our staff, students and wider community is paramount. We are committed to supporting those impacted by the conflict and are exploring ways to assist where education has been disrupted. 

Through a large-scale twinning initiative supported by Universities UK (UUK), we are twinned with ZNU University, located in the Zaporizhzhia Oblast region in the Southeast of Ukraine, very close to the frontline. We continue to build connections across both institutions. 

We regularly offer studentships on an annual basis to support students displaced by conflict. Our work with the Council for At-Risk Academics (CARA) offers funding a number of fellowships annually.  

In line with the UK Government, our major funders and the higher education sector more generally, we have reviewed our research collaborations with institutions and other entities in Russia and Belarus.  

Durham University has suspended all bilateral research collaborations with organisations in these countries. No new research collaborations with Russia or Belarus will be initiated during this conflict. 

Our biggest hope is for peace, an end to the suffering it has caused, and for a fair and sustainable resolution to the conflict.