President Volodymyr Zelensky hosted a significant meeting with Her Royal Highness The Princess Anne of the United Kingdom in Kyiv, marking the first visit by a member of the British Royal Family to Ukraine since the nation regained its independence. The Princess Royal had previously travelled to Kyiv in 1973 and 1990, reports The WP Times.
The official meeting took place on the historic grounds of the National Sanctuary "St. Sophia of Kyiv," a site of profound cultural and historical significance.
President Zelensky extended his sincere gratitude to The Princess Royal for the steadfast and continuous attention and support provided to Ukraine and its people. He highlighted the situation of the approximately 250,000 Ukrainian citizens who have sought refuge in the United Kingdom, forced to leave their homes due to the ongoing Russian aggression. The President acknowledged the constant focus of the Royal Family on issues related to assisting these displaced individuals.
Furthermore, the Head of State specifically thanked Princess Anne for taking the time during her visit to meet with and talk to Ukrainian veterans. President Zelensky emphasized the critical importance of Her Royal Highness's personal interest and dedication to veteran welfare and rehabilitation efforts.
A central point of the discussions was the urgent issue of the return of Ukrainian children abducted by Russia. President Zelensky noted the United Kingdom's active involvement in the International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children. Ukraine expressed its strong reliance on the UK's continued support for all related initiatives. Princess Anne shared details of her emotional meeting with children who have successfully been returned home, prompting President Zelensky to stress that every child is important and that all necessary measures must be taken for their successful re-integration into society. He extended an invitation to Her Royal Highness to participate in the upcoming summit of the International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children.
Beyond humanitarian concerns, the conversation also covered the crucial topic of rehabilitation for Ukrainian service members. They discussed various recovery methods, including the use of animal-assisted therapy, aimed at restoring the physical and mental health of patients. The leaders also exchanged views on implementing accessibility and barrier-free practices to ensure the full social re-integration of veterans and people with disabilities. Princess Anne shared her impressions following her visit to one of the rehabilitation centers located in Bucha, underscoring the vital work being done there.
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