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Zelensky and King Charles III hold private talks at Windsor Castle
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met with Britain's King Charles III at Windsor Castle on Monday, following high-level discussions with European allies in London over the weekend. The meeting underscored the UK's continued support for Ukraine amid Russia's ongoing invasion.
Leaders reaffirm support for Ukraine in joint statement
On Sunday, Zelensky joined UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron, and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz at 10 Downing Street. The leaders, representing the E3 group-three of Kyiv's strongest Western allies-issued a joint statement demanding a "just and lasting" resolution to the war and condemning Russia's recent missile and drone strikes on Ukrainian cities.
The statement called for an "immediate and complete ceasefire" and reiterated the group's commitment to standing "firmly with Ukraine."
Zelensky invites King Charles to Ukraine for state visit
After his meeting with the monarch, Zelensky expressed gratitude for the UK's "ironclad" support and revealed plans to extend an official invitation to King Charles for a state visit to Ukraine, potentially as early as this year. Speaking to The Guardian, Zelensky emphasized the symbolic importance of such a visit, framing it as a gesture of solidarity.
Zelensky also shared a photograph of himself and the King during their discussions at Windsor Castle on social media, highlighting the warmth of the encounter.
Controversy over removal of Ukrainian flags in UK towns
During his interview with The Guardian, Zelensky addressed reports that several local councils affiliated with the Reform UK party had removed Ukrainian flags from town halls. While stating he preferred to avoid domestic political disputes, Zelensky expressed hope that the flags would be reinstated.
"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."
Volodymyr Zelensky, President of Ukraine
A spokesperson for Reform UK responded to the criticism, telling the BBC that the party supports Ukraine's fight against Russia but believes "only domestic flags should be flown from public buildings at home."
Western allies push for security guarantees
The UK and France are leading a "coalition of the willing" to establish long-term security guarantees for Ukraine as part of any future peace agreement. The initiative aims to provide Kyiv with assurances against future aggression, though details of the framework remain under discussion.
Zelensky's visit to London and Windsor Castle comes as Ukraine seeks to strengthen diplomatic and military ties with its European partners ahead of potential negotiations with Russia.
