‘We want to see him in Ukraine’: Zelenskyy hopes to invite King Charles on state visit

‘We want to see him in Ukraine’: Zelenskyy hopes to invite King Charles on state visit

We want to see him in Ukraine - Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has shared his anticipation for a potential state visit by King Charles III to Kyiv, a development that could mark a significant milestone in the UK’s diplomatic engagement with the war-torn nation. The planned trip, which may take place as early as this year, would make Charles the highest-ranking royal to visit Ukraine since the onset of Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022. This move underscores the enduring partnership between the two leaders, despite ongoing challenges on the frontlines.

According to Zelenskyy, his relationship with the king has been consistently strong, with multiple meetings held over the past few years. Notably, the monarch’s public endorsement of the Ukrainian leader during his controversial visit to the White House in 2024 played a pivotal role in bolstering morale and international support. “Today, I want to invite him very much,” Zelenskyy said in a recent interview with the Guardian. “I don’t know from the point of security. Yes, of course, we want to see him in Ukraine very much. I don’t know how it will be this year, if it’s possible, but of course we want to see him.”

"We have a very good relationship, you know," Zelenskyy added. "Today, in the morning, when I spoke by phone with my wife, with all respect to Keir [Starmer], but my wife said best regards to his majesty first, of course, and then to the prime minister, of course. So of course, we, and Ukraine, love his majesty."

Zelenskyy emphasized that Charles’s continued support for Ukraine remains unwavering, though the specifics of this backing remain undisclosed. “It’s up to his majesty to answer on such questions,” he remarked. This statement highlights the personal nature of the connection between the two leaders, who have cultivated a bond that transcends political alliances. The UK’s unwavering commitment to Ukraine’s cause, particularly after the Ukrainian leader’s high-profile meeting with Donald Trump and JD Vance in the US, has been a cornerstone of their collaboration.

Charles’s invitation to Zelenskyy at his Norfolk estate, Sandringham, in March 2024 was a rare gesture of solidarity. During their meeting, the king reportedly acknowledged the profound impact of the war on Ukraine and reaffirmed the UK’s pledge to assist. This event followed a series of diplomatic efforts by the UK, including military aid and economic support, to sustain Ukraine’s resilience against Russian aggression. The visit to Sandringham symbolized a shift in the royal family’s approach to engaging with the conflict, moving from symbolic gestures to active participation in strategic discussions.

While King Charles’s proposed visit would be a historic moment, he is not the first member of the royal family to demonstrate solidarity with Ukraine. Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, and Princess Anne have already made trips to Kyiv since 2022, focusing on humanitarian efforts and public diplomacy. However, the royal family’s involvement has largely been limited to these two members, who have served as ambassadors for the UK’s support. Prince Harry, on the other hand, has taken a more personal route, visiting Ukraine three times, including a notable trip in September 2024. During this visit, Harry highlighted the importance of aiding the recovery of military personnel, stating his intent to "do everything possible" to support their rehabilitation.

Zelenskyy’s remarks in the Guardian reflect a broader desire for visibility and international solidarity. By inviting the king to Ukraine, the president aims to strengthen diplomatic ties and showcase the nation’s progress in the face of adversity. The visit could also serve as a platform to discuss ongoing challenges, such as the need for additional military supplies or the impact of Western sanctions on the war effort. Such meetings are crucial for maintaining momentum in the international coalition supporting Ukraine.

The president’s enthusiasm for the visit contrasts with the cautious approach often taken by Western leaders when engaging with the conflict. While Zelenskyy has been vocal in his appeals for aid, he has also emphasized the importance of personal connections in fostering trust. His remarks about his wife’s priorities during a recent call—prioritizing the king’s well-being over political figures—underscore the deep respect he holds for the royal family’s role in the Ukrainian cause.

Historically, royal visits to Ukraine have played a key role in shaping public perception and securing resources. The last time a senior royal visited Kyiv was during the early stages of the war, when the country’s leaders were seeking global attention and assistance. Zelenskyy’s invitation to King Charles would not only revive this tradition but also signal a new era of cooperation between the two nations. The UK’s support for Ukraine has been instrumental in providing critical aid, including weapons, financial assistance, and diplomatic advocacy, and the king’s visit could further solidify this alliance.

Despite the uncertainty surrounding the security logistics of the trip, Zelenskyy’s confidence in the king’s ability to navigate the challenges is evident. His comments suggest that the visit is not just a political endeavor but also a personal expression of camaraderie. The two leaders first met in 2023 at Buckingham Palace, where they discussed the future of the conflict and the importance of maintaining a unified front. This meeting marked a turning point in their relationship, leading to a more collaborative dynamic in international affairs.

As the war enters its fifth year, the symbolism of royal visits has grown even more profound. For Ukraine, these gestures represent a commitment to its survival and a recognition of its sacrifices. Zelenskyy’s hope to welcome King Charles to Kyiv is a testament to the enduring partnership between the UK and Ukraine, one that has been tested but remains resilient. The president’s vision for the visit includes a blend of formal diplomacy and heartfelt solidarity, reflecting the dual nature of his leadership—both as a war commander and a national symbol.

While the exact details of the visit remain to be finalized, the anticipation is palpable. Zelenskyy’s statements indicate that he sees the king as a vital figure in Ukraine’s narrative, someone who can bridge the gap between the nation’s struggles and international support. The king’s presence in Kyiv could also inspire further commitments from other world leaders, reinforcing the idea that the war is not just a military conflict but a global cause. As the Ukrainian leader continues to navigate the complexities of the war, his desire to host King Charles serves as a reminder of the importance of unity and shared purpose in the face of adversity.