Zelensky thanks UK for ‘ironclad’ support after meeting King

Zelensky thanks UK for 'ironclad' support after meeting King

Private Encounter at Windsor Castle

Zelensky thanks UK for ironclad support - On Monday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky held a private meeting with King Charles III at Windsor Castle, following discussions with Ukraine's European allies. During the session, Zelensky expressed gratitude toward the United Kingdom for its unwavering backing, indicating plans to extend an invitation to the monarch for a state visit to Kyiv in the near future.

"I hope they will put it back," Zelensky told the newspaper. He added: "I don't want to be involved in any political things, but you know, the world is so sensitive today. Sometimes little, small mistakes can break big friendships or huge contacts."

Joint Statement for Peace

Earlier in the day, leaders from Ukraine, the UK, France, and Germany released a unified declaration urging a "just and lasting" resolution to the conflict with Russia. The leaders, including Zelensky, UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron, and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, pledged to "stand firmly with Ukraine" during the talks in London.

After the meeting, Zelensky shared a photo of his time with the King at Windsor Castle, highlighting the moment on social media. He also mentioned the possibility of welcoming Charles to Ukraine for an official state visit as early as this year.

Reform UK's Flag Decision

Meanwhile, some Reform UK councils had decided to remove Ukrainian flags from town halls, prompting Zelensky to address the matter. The Ukrainian leader emphasized the importance of maintaining solidarity, stating that such actions could strain relationships in a politically charged environment.

"It is an entirely reasonable position to support the people of Ukraine in their fight against Russia, whilst also believing that only domestic flags should be flown from public buildings at home," said a Reform spokesperson in response to the controversy.

E3 Group and Peace Efforts

The UK, France, and Germany, collectively known as the E3 group, represent key allies of Kyiv. They spearhead the "coalition of the willing" initiative, aiming to provide security assurances for Ukraine as part of potential peace negotiations. In a Sunday evening statement, Starmer, Macron, and Merz called on Russia to agree to an "immediate and complete ceasefire" and criticized its "large-scale missile and drone attacks" on Ukrainian cities.