President Zelensky visited two kings in one week in a quest for support from European royals.
This week, Ukraine’s President Volodymir Zelensky travelled across Europe to garner support during his country’s ongoing war with Russia.
On Monday, the president landed in Madrid and was personally welcomed at the steps of his plane by King Felipe.
It is not common for the King to make this gesture marking a symbol of unity between the two countries.
The two Heads of State were then driven to the Royal Palace where they were joined by Queen Letizia for lunch.
Before eating, Felipe expressed his unity with the country stating: “It is an honour for me today to address those of you who keep defending the sovereignty, freedom and democracy of your country, Ukraine, in the face of Russia’s brutal armed aggression.
“For more than two years, the whole world is bearing witness to your heroism, the commitment, courage and resistance of the Ukrainian people, its government, and its Armed Forces
“Mr President, know that Spain fully supports the objectives and principles of your Peace Plan.
“Together, Mr President, we will work tirelessly to achieve as soon as possible the peace that your people so deserve and need, so that all Ukrainian citizens can live safe and protected, without fear or threats. It is our ambition and our conviction.”
Following their lunch, the King and Zelensky held a private meeting before the government announced the signature of a bilateral defence agreement.
On Tuesday, Zelensky continued his journey to Belgium where he met King Philippe of Brussels at the Royal Palace.
The details of the meeting were not publicly announced, however, the Belgian Royal Palace posted pictures of the pair on their social media.
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The caption of the post read: “His Excellency Volodymyr Zelensky, President of Ukraine, has been welcomed for an audience at the Royal Palace.”
After briefly touching down in Portugal, the Ukrainian president made his way back to Kyiv, where he has been based since the start of the invasion on February 24, 2022.
In February this year, Zelensky travelled to the UK where he met with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and had a private audience with King Charles.
Later that month, Charles issued a statement to mark two years of the war in Ukraine sending his “thoughts and prayers” to all those affected.
