Russia has invaded Ukraine. War has returned to Europe. History is being written, and leaders have not stepped up.

It's time to ban Russia from the SWIFT bank payments system.

Ukrainian people, from citizens to leaders, are crying out for more help from other countries. So far sanctions from the European Union have been limited, and will take time to take effect.

Ukrainians are asking for the EU and the world to isolate Russia, and they want the European Union to ban Russia from the SWIFT payments system.

There is a precedent. In 2012, Swift was banned by the EU from serving Iranian companies and individuals connected with Tehran's nuclear programme.

More action is and will be needed. We will need to provide solidarity to our Ukrainian brothers and sisters over the coming days, weeks and months. Countries will need to stand up to Putin to stop his war mongering. But right now, at the outset of this illegal, inhuman, invasion, we need to increase the pressure on Russia any way we can - and listen to what Ukrainians are asking for. 

Please SIGN OUR PETITION to ask Chancellor Scholz, President Macron, Prime Minister Draghi and other EU leaders to ban Russia from the Swift system NOW.