King Charles has met with the President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy at Sandringham in the Saloon Room, marking a significant moment in the ongoing diplomatic efforts to support Ukraine amidst its conflict with Russia.
The President arrived via helicopter after it took off from near Buckingham Palace and flew to Norfolk.
King Charles met the President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy. (Royal Family)
It comes after the British Prime Minister Keir Starmer extended a warm welcome to Zelenskyy upon his arrival in London, affirming the UK’s unwavering support for the eastern European nation, more than two years after the Russian invasion.
This meeting with King Charles follows a series of events, notably President Zelenskyy’s clash with US President Donald Trump in the Oval Office at the White House, during which Trump warned that the Ukrainian was ‘gambling with World War Three’.
In response, European leaders have rallied to bolster their support for Ukraine, with the UK Government leaning on the Royals for their soft diplomacy powers, subtly indicating support.
The King’s meeting with Mr Zelensky followed a summit of European leaders, plus those of Canada and Turkey, convened in London to discuss the war in Ukraine and a solution for peace.
King Charles III meeting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at Sandringham
Sandringham was the setting for Charles’ Audience with the Ukrainian President. (Wikipedia)
King Charles has been a steadfast supporter of Ukraine. After the Russian invasion began, the then-Prince of Wales condemned the ‘brutal aggression’ by Russia. He has also visited a number of Ukrainian refugee centres, including the Ukrainian Cathedral in London and meeting those helping refugees.
In 2023, King Charles also met Zelenskyy at Buckingham Palace, during his first visit to the UK.
In a message to mark the two years of conflict in the country in 2024, Charles said the ‘determination and strength of the Ukrainian people continues to inspire, as the unprovoked attack on their land, their lives and livelihoods enters a third, tragic, year’.
The discussions between the Monarch and President Zelenskyy are expected to focus on the current situation in Ukraine and the importance of continued international support, and points to the UK’s dedication to standing with Ukraine, as well as the broader European community’s efforts to ensure stability and peace in the region.
