King Charles details 'time of great anguish' in new statement to Ukraine

The monarch spoke out today
Robert Emlyn Slater

King Charles reiterated the UK’s support for Ukraine as the country’s conflict with Russia enters its fourth year this February.

The monarch, 77, has been very vocal in his support of Ukraine since the country was invaded by Russia in 2022.

King Charles smiling
Charles issued a statement (Credit: CoverImages.com)

King Charles shows his support for Ukraine

Commemorating the first anniversary of the 100 Year Partnership between the UK and Ukraine, Charles declared “we stand with you” in a heartfelt statement on Friday (January 16).

“As we also look ahead to the fourth anniversary of the full-scale invasion of your beloved country – a time of great anguish, I know, for many families across Ukraine and the world – my wife and I continue to keep you all in our heartfelt thoughts and prayers,” he said.

“I wish, above all, to convey my profound hope that Ukraine can achieve a just and lasting peace that safeguards its security, sovereignty and prosperity, in a way that Ukrainians deserve. We stand with you,” the king added.

The UK-Ukraine alliance comprises both a formal treaty and a political commitment. It encompasses several crucial elements to strengthen maritime protection and defence co-operation.

The partnership also encompasses collaboration in healthcare and disease control, as well as advancements in agricultural technology and the space industry.

King Charles smiling
Charles has shown his support for Ukraine (Credit: Cover Images)

King Charles’ message to Ukraine

Cultural and educational projects between the countries will also help strengthen their bond.

In his message, he also said: “As we celebrate the first anniversary of the 100-Year Partnership between the United Kingdom and Ukraine, I do pray that the flourishing bonds between our two countries may bring some hope and moral support at this most difficult time.

My wife and I continue to keep you all in our heartfelt thoughts and prayers.

“Ukraine’s most valiant strength in the face of such appalling hardship and pain is an extraordinary example to the world, and I am constantly impressed by the sheer bravery, courage, and resilience shown by the Ukrainian people.”

Charles has been very supportive of Ukraine over the last few years. As well as regularly connecting with Ukrainian refugees, he has also featured the Songs for Ukraine Chorus in his Christmas Day message last month.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy looking to the side
Volodymyr Zelenskyy thanked the king for his message last year (Credit: Cover Images)

King Charles has ‘greatest and deepest admiration’ for people of Ukraine

Last August, on Ukraine’s Independence Day, Charles penned a letter to Ukraine and the country’s leader, Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

“I keep feeling the greatest and deepest admiration for the unbreakable courage and spirit of the Ukrainian people,” Charles said.

“I remain hopeful that our countries will be able to further work closely together to achieve a just and lasting peace in Ukraine.”

Mr Zelenskyy said he was “grateful” for Charles’ message.

“His Majesty’s kind words are a true inspiration for our people during the difficult time of war,” he said.

“We appreciate the United Kingdom’s leadership in supporting Ukraine and our just cause: to defend freedom from tyranny and ensure a lasting peace in Ukraine and throughout Europe.”

Read more: King Charles supports Ukraine president Volodymyr Zelenskyy following ‘humiliating’ meeting with Donald Trump

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