Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has expressed profound gratitude to King Charles III for his unwavering public support of Ukraine, highlighted during the British monarch’s historic address to the United States Congress. In a post on X published on Wednesday, April 29, the Ukrainian head of state praised the King’s clear message to American lawmakers, emphasizing that transatlantic solidarity remains crucial for Europe’s long-term security.
“I thank His Majesty King Charles III, the Royal Family, the United Kingdom, and all valiant American hearts for this clarion call for unity in support of Ukraine across the Atlantic,” Zelensky wrote. He noted that such unwavering commitment is exactly what is required to bring about a dignified and lasting peace in Ukraine and throughout the European continent. The Ukrainian leader underscored the deep appreciation of his people for the continued geopolitical backing from both Washington and London.
The President’s remarks came in response to a monumental diplomatic event. King Charles III is currently in Washington to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the US Declaration of Independence. During his visit, the monarch delivered a powerful speech to a joint session of Congress—becoming only the second British sovereign to do so, following in the footsteps of Queen Elizabeth II in 1991.
In his address, King Charles III underscored the exceptional and enduring role of the United States as the “heart of NATO.” Amidst occasional rhetoric from US President Donald Trump hinting at a reevaluation of the Alliance, the King’s words served as a polite yet firm defense of collective security. Charles warned that any fragmentation or weakening of NATO could severely threaten the stability of the civilized world.
Touching upon the ongoing war in Ukraine, the British monarch drew poignant parallels to the tragic events of September 11, 2001—the only time in history that NATO invoked its Article 5 mutual defense clause. He argued that the world currently requires that same level of absolute unity and resolve to counter Russian aggression and uphold international law.
The state visit unfolds against a complex and highly charged geopolitical backdrop. On Monday, April 27, President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump hosted King Charles and Queen Camilla at the White House. However, the King’s trip to the US sparked significant controversy back home. Prior to his departure, several members of the UK Parliament demanded the cancellation of the royal visit due to the Trump administration’s recently launched military campaign in Iran. Critics in London argued that the state visit might be interpreted as an endorsement of controversial US military actions in the Middle East.
Despite the domestic political friction in the UK and the shifting priorities in Washington, the King’s speech successfully kept Ukraine at the forefront of the international agenda. By leveraging the soft power of the Crown, the United Kingdom continues to act as a vital diplomatic advocate for Kyiv, ensuring that the fight for Ukrainian sovereignty remains a priority for the free world.