Zelenskyy wants to invite King Charles III on a state visit to Ukraine
The President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, has stated that he plans to invite King Charles III of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland to pay a state visit to Ukraine, security conditions permitting.
In an interview with The Guardian, the head of state noted that he has a close relationship with the British monarch and has met with him on several occasions. In particular, he mentioned Charles III’s support following public disputes during the Ukrainian President’s visit to the White House last year.
“Today, I very much want to invite him. I don’t know how that will work from a security perspective. Yes, of course, we very much want to see him in Ukraine. I don’t know how things will pan out this year, or whether it will be possible, but we certainly want to see him,” said Zelenskyy.
The President also noted that the King continues to support Ukraine, but did not disclose the details of such support.
“It is up to His Majesty to answer such questions,” said the head of state.
According to Zelenskyy, a warm and trusting relationship has developed between him and Charles III. He explained that during a telephone conversation that morning, his wife Olena Zelenska first conveyed her best wishes to the British monarch, and only then to the British Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
“So, of course, we, like Ukraine, love His Majesty,” the President added.
On 8 June, Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a meeting with King Charles III. They had previously met on 17 March.
Following the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, became the first member of the British royal family to visit Ukraine.
Last year, Princess Anne, sister of King Charles III, also visited Ukraine. During her unannounced visit, she met with Volodymyr Zelenskyy and First Lady Olena Zelenska.
In addition, Prince Harry has visited Ukraine three times.
