Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has announced his intention to invite King Charles on a state visit to Ukraine, potentially as early as this year. If realized, this would mark the first visit by a senior British royal to Kyiv since the onset of Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022.
A Close Relationship with the Monarch
In an exclusive interview with the Guardian, Zelenskyy spoke warmly of his bond with King Charles, whom he has met multiple times. Notably, the king publicly supported Zelenskyy after his tense visit to the White House last year. Zelenskyy expressed his desire to host the monarch, stating, "Today I want to invite him very much. I don't know from the point of security. Yes, of course, we want to see him in Ukraine very much. I don't know how it will be this year, if it's possible, but of course we want to see him."
King Charles's Support for Ukraine
While Zelenskyy acknowledged the king's continued support for Ukraine, he refrained from disclosing specifics, deferring to the monarch's discretion. However, he emphasized their rapport, recounting a morning phone call with his wife, who prioritized sending regards to the king before the prime minister. Zelenskyy added, "We have a very good relationship... So of course, we, and Ukraine, love his majesty."
Royal Visits Since 2022
Since the invasion, only Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, and Princess Anne have visited Ukraine as working royals. Prince Harry has made three separate trips, including last September, where he pledged to aid the recovery of wounded soldiers. In March 2023, King Charles hosted Zelenskyy at Sandringham Estate, demonstrating unwavering UK support after the Ukrainian leader's difficult encounter with US President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance. Their first meeting occurred in 2023 at Buckingham Palace.
Zelenskyy also expressed hope that Reform UK councils would permit the flying of Ukrainian flags again, underscoring the ongoing solidarity between the two nations.
