King Charles has expressed a powerful message of support for Ukraine, marking the second anniversary of Russia’s invasion. He described the “indescribable aggression” Ukrainians have faced due to the “unprovoked attack on their land”. The King’s unusually direct message appears to be a call to maintain international aid for Ukraine. He praised the ongoing support from the UK and its allies.
Amid doubts about financial and military aid for Ukraine, especially from some US politicians, King Charles lauded the global support for Ukraine during its time of “great suffering and need”. He mentioned the military training provided in the UK for Ukrainian soldiers and commended President Zelensky’s efforts.
As the war enters its third year, King Charles openly expressed his sympathies, praising the “determination and strength of the Ukrainian people”. He said, “Despite the tremendous hardship and pain inflicted upon them, Ukrainians continue to show the heroism with which the world associates them so closely. Theirs is true valour, in the face of indescribable aggression.”
The King has shown a deep concern for the Ukrainian conflict. Early in the war, he made a surprise visit to Ukrainian refugees in Romania. He has also visited the Ukrainian community in the UK. During a state visit to France last year, he emphasized the importance of a Ukrainian victory against Russia’s “horrifying” invasion to ensure “our cherished freedoms will prevail”.
This clear stance on an international conflict is unusual for the King and reflects his strong feelings. Despite undergoing cancer treatment and stepping back from public events, he continues to fulfill his duties as head of state.
The King’s statement follows the announcement by the UK of further sanctions against Russia. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, who visited Kyiv last month to sign a new security agreement and announce £2.5bn of military aid to Ukraine over the next year, said “we must renew our determination” on this “grim anniversary”.
Pro-Ukraine demonstrations were held in London’s Hyde Park and Trafalgar Square, as well as in other parts of the UK including Glasgow. Olha Plyushch, a refugee who manages the English School for Displaced Ukrainians at the Ukrainian Institute London, said the school has provided free lessons to over 1,000 refugees since its establishment in May 2022.
