King Charles Hails Ukraine’s ‘Most Valiant Strength’ in Anniversary Message

King Charles III on Friday praised Ukraine’s “most valiant strength in the face of such appalling hardship and pain” in a message marking the first anniversary of the century-long partnership agreement between the UK and Ukraine.

“I do pray that the flourishing bonds between our two countries may bring some hope and moral support at this most difficult time,” the King’s heartfelt message read.

He described Ukraine as an “extraordinary example to the world” and said “I am constantly impressed by the sheer bravery, courage and resilience shown by the Ukrainian people.”

The King has been an outspoken advocate for Ukraine for several years. In September, it was reported that he was “very close” to the negotiations being brokered by the US between Ukraine and Russia.

Andriy Yermak, President Volodymyr Zelensky’s former chief of staff, subsequently told The Telegraph that private talks between the British monarch and US President Donald Trump were “very important” in swaying the latter’s view of the war.

In a speech delivered at a state banquet at Windsor Castle in September, the King said: “As tyranny once again threatens Europe, we and our allies stand together in support of Ukraine to deter aggression and secure peace.”

On Friday, King Charles said that ahead of the four-year anniversary of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine, he wished “above all, to convey my profound hope that Ukraine can achieve a just and lasting peace that safeguards its security, sovereignty and prosperity, in a way that Ukrainians deserve.”

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The Illusion of a Peace Deal for Ukraine

Anyone who believes Russia is serious about negotiating a peace deal with Ukraine need only look at what Moscow says to be disabused. For those who consider Zelensky to be the one who is obstreperously rejecting reasonable compromises, let them lay out a point-by-point plan of what they and Russia see as the path towards ending this war. I’ll wager nobody can.

British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer shared the King’s message, saying: “What happens in Ukraine matters to our security and to our future.”

“We will continue to work together for both of our interests: freedom, democracy, and the rule of law.”

To mark the first anniversary of the signing of the 100-year partnership between the UK and Ukraine, President Volodymyr Zelensky met with UK Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy in Kyiv.

He thanked Lammy for the pledge announced by Britain on Friday for an additional £20 million ($25 million) to help Ukraine repair and protect its battered energy infrastructure.

“This is very important. There are many daily missile attacks on our energy sector right now, and any support is significant. Every day we need this – to strengthen our energy infrastructure, and we are very grateful for this,” Zelensky emphasized.

The president said that the pair had also discussed ongoing diplomatic efforts and how to apply greater pressure on Russia in the talks.