PREVIEW

This video shows: Rori.

Five lions rescued from war-torn Ukraine are to live in luxury after generous members of the public raised £500,000 to build them an enclosure at The Big Cat Sanctuary in Ashford, Kent.


The lions, Yuna, Rori, Vanda, Amani and Lira, will settle into their new lair from January, when the new enclosure will be completed.


African lioness Yuna, arrived at The Big Cat Sanctuary’s rescue centre in August, while the four others - Rori, Vanda, Amani and Lira - will join her in early 2025.


The money raised by the public will both help pay for the lions’ new habitat, as well as helping with transportation costs, and veterinary treatment.


In a statement, staff at the sanctuary said: “Thanks to the incredible generosity of supporters worldwide, this milestone ensures a brighter future for five rescued lions who have endured unimaginable hardship in war-torn Ukraine.”


They added: “The sanctuary extends its deepest gratitude to everyone who contributed to this life-changing campaign. Each donation, no matter the size, has made a real difference. Completing this campaign is not just a triumph for the sanctuary but a testament to the power of collective action to improve the lives of animals in need.”


Before arriving in peaceful Kent, Yuna, a three-year-old lioness endured the terrors of war and is suffering from shell-shock in Ukraine. She sadly spent her early years confined to a cold concrete floor in a private home, and was caught in a warzone after Russia’s full scale invasion of Ukraine.

She is also suffering shock, concussion, and a loss of coordination.