- Written by Sean Coughlan
- royal correspondent
King Charles issued a strong statement of support for Ukraine in a statement marking the second anniversary of the Russian invasion.
He spoke of the “unspeakable aggression” Ukrainians have faced since what he called “unprovoked attacks on their land.”
This unusually direct message appears to be a rallying cry for continued international support for Ukraine.
The King welcomed continued support from the UK and its allies.
Financial and military support for Ukraine has come under question, especially from some US politicians, with King Charles calling for international aid at a time when Ukraine is facing “great suffering and need.” appealed to continue.
King Charles spoke about the military training being provided to Ukrainian soldiers in the UK and praised the efforts of the country’s President Zelenskiy.
As the war enters its third year, the king expressed sympathy and praised the “determination and strength of the Ukrainian people.”
“Despite great hardship and suffering, Ukrainians continue to display the heroism with which the world is closely associated with them, their true courage in the face of unspeakable aggression,” the king said. said.
The war in Ukraine was a concern of the king. During the early stages of the conflict, he made a surprise visit to meet Ukrainian refugees who had fled across the border into Romania.
The King has visited the Ukrainian community in the UK, and during a state visit to France last year, he told the House of Lords of the importance of Ukraine’s victory over Russia’s “terrible” invasion, saying: “Our precious freedoms will survive. ” he said.
It is unusual for a king to speak so clearly about an international conflict, and his comments reflect the strength of his feelings.
This latest personal intervention in Ukraine comes as the king is undergoing treatment for cancer. Although he has withdrawn from public life, he continues to serve as head of state.
The king’s statement was supposed to have been made in consultation with ministers following the UK’s announcement of additional sanctions against Russia.
Chancellor Rishi Sunak, who visited Kiev last month to sign a new security deal and announce £2.5bn of military aid to Ukraine over the coming year, said the “daunting anniversary” would “renew our resolve”. We have to do it,” he said.