Sting releases haunting cello rendition of 'Russians' to raise money for Ukraine

Nearly 40 years after Sting released his Cold War-inspired song 'Russians,' he has unveiled a new version of the track following the devastating attacks on Ukraine.

The 70-year-old singer has re-recorded a live version of the song with cellist Ramiro Belgardt.

"I've only rarely sung this song in the many years since it was written because I never thought it would be relevant again," Sting explained in a statement.

"But, in the light of one man's bloody and woefully misguided decision to invade a peaceful, unthreatening neighbour, the song is, once again, a plea for our common humanity."

He continued: "For the brave Ukrainians fighting against this brutal tyranny and also the many Russians who are protesting this outrage despite the threat of arrest and imprisonment – we, all of us, love our children. Stop the war."

Profits from the song will benefit Help Ukraine Center, a volunteer storage centre established by Ukrainian business owners where humanitarian and medical aid can be sent from all over the world.

The 1985 song originally appeared on his debut album, The Dream of the Blue Turtles.