In a powerful demonstration of solidarity, the Duke of Sussex undertook a clandestine visit to Kyiv, arriving on Friday to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The trip, shrouded in secrecy for security reasons, marks a significant moment in the Duke's ongoing work with wounded servicemen and women.
The focal point of the visit was a discussion on the critical importance of addressing the psychological trauma inflicted by war. "Every person in this country has been through some form of a traumatic experience," Prince Harry stated, emphasising that mental wounds, though invisible, are just as debilitating as physical ones.
The Invictus Connection
The Duke's journey is intrinsically linked to the Invictus Games, the international sporting event he founded for injured and sick military personnel. Ukraine is set to host the Invictus Games 2023 in Düsseldorf, Germany, a team that Prince Harry described as embodying the "bravery and resilience" of the entire nation.
His Royal Highness spent time with competitors training for the games, praising their unwavering spirit in the face of immense adversity.
A Message of Unwavering Support
During his audience with President Zelensky and First Lady Olena Zelenska, the Duke conveyed a message of continued global backing. "You know you've got support from people right around the world," he affirmed. The Ukrainian leader expressed his gratitude, noting the significance of the visit for the morale of his country's soldiers and citizens.
The surprise nature of the trip underscores the ongoing security concerns in the region, with the Duke's team and Ukrainian officials coordinating closely to ensure his safety during the high-profile visit to a nation actively defending itself from invasion.
