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King Charles praised Ukraine's “determination and strength” in the face of Russia's “unrecognizable aggression” on Saturday, marking the second anniversary of the country's invasion.
“The determination and strength of the Ukrainian people continue to inspire as the unprovoked attack on their land, lives and livelihoods enters a third, tragic year,” the monarch wrote in an official statement.
He added: “Despite the enormous hardship and pain inflicted on them, Ukrainians continue to demonstrate the heroism with which the world so closely associates them. They possess true bravery in the face of unspeakable aggression.”
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The king said he “felt this personally” in meetings he has had with Ukrainians since the start of the war, including with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and his wife Oleksandra Zelensky, as well as with Ukrainian army recruits trained in the United Kingdom.
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King Charles III invited Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to Buckingham Palace last year. (Aaron Chown/Pool/AFP)
He continued: “I remain very encouraged that the UK and our allies continue to lead international efforts to support Ukraine at this time of such great suffering and need. My condolences go out to all those affected as I think of them in my thoughts and prayers.
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Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24, 2022.
The king's unusually strong statement came after the United Kingdom imposed further sanctions on Russia following the death of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny. The USA has also imposed further sanctions against the country.
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The British Embassy in Washington, DC was lit up in the colors of the Ukrainian flag on Saturday evening to commemorate two years since the start of the war. (British Embassy, Washington, DC)
The British Embassy in Washington, DC also lit up its building in the colors of the Ukrainian flag on Saturday evening to show its support.
Charles received Zelensky at Buckingham Palace a year ago when the Ukrainian president made a surprise visit to Britain, almost a year after the start of the war.
“We have all been worried about you and thinking about your country for so long, I can’t tell you,” the king said at the time.
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In March last year, Prince William made a surprise visit to see British and Polish troops on Poland's border with Ukraine.
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“I am here because I would like to personally thank the Polish and British troops who work together in close and crucial partnership,” the Prince of Wales said at the time. “I would also like to pay tribute to the inspiring humanity of the Polish people.” “I have opened your hearts as well as your homes,” he added, emphasizing the Polish people's willingness to accept Ukrainian refugees.