Volodymyr Zelensky issues message to King Charles after monarch's 'strong words' in US

President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed his appreciation to King Charles for the monarch's vocal support of Ukraine during his recent visit to the United States.

The Ukrainian leader shared his thanks while meeting Sir Keir Starmer at a hotel in Yerevan, Armenia's capital, on Sunday.

"Best regards and thanks to His Majesty for strong words in the United States supporting our people," Mr Zelensky said to the Prime Minister.

European leaders have gathered in the Armenian capital ahead of the European Political Community summit taking place today.

The King addressed Congress last week, highlighting the significance of NATO and continued assistance for Kyiv.

His remarks came amid growing concerns about Donald Trump's diminishing focus on the conflict.

The King's congressional address has been widely viewed as a measured counterpoint to certain positions held by the US president, including on Ukraine, where American attention has been diverted by the Iran war.

King Charles's speech emphasised transatlantic unity and the importance of standing with Kyiv at a time when questions persist about Washington's commitment to the alliance.

The diplomatic intervention by the monarch represented a notable moment during the state visit, with his words resonating particularly strongly among European partners seeking continued American engagement in supporting Ukraine's defence.

During their discussions, Mr Zelensky briefed the Prime Minister on the current situation at the front lines, with both leaders examining Ukraine's progress in the ongoing conflict.

According to Downing Street, the pair agreed that strengthening defence industrial partnerships with European nations was essential to sustaining Ukraine's resistance for as long as necessary.

The meeting also addressed preparations for the coming months, with both leaders stressing the importance of safeguarding Ukraine's energy network before winter arrives.

A government spokeswoman said this would enhance the country's ability to withstand what she described as Russia's "ongoing barbaric attacks" on civilian infrastructure.

Mr Zelensky also expressed gratitude for Britain's sanctions regime against Moscow and its crackdown on Russia's shadow fleet, describing these measures as a "great example" for allied nations to follow.

"I think that Russia's economy feels it," the Ukrainian president remarked.

In March, Sir Keir announced that British commandos would have the authority to intercept and stop shadow fleet vessels transporting oil through UK waters to fund Russia's military campaign.

The Prime Minister, accompanied by EU relations minister Nick Thomas-Symonds and national security adviser Jonathan Powell, will co-chair a major session on Ukraine alongside France.

The EPC was established in 2022 following Russia's full-scale invasion.