The monarch held a private audience with Mr Zelensky on Monday afternoon

Ruby Cline

Ruby Cline covers news and politics at The Telegraph. She is the author of All The Work You Shouldn’t Do and the creator of ConversationsWithRuby. X: @RubyClinee

Published 09 June 2026

Volodymyr Zelensky has invited King Charlesfor a state visit to Ukraine which could take place as early as this year.

The monarch, who had a private audience with the Ukrainian president on Monday afternoon, played a critical role in persuading Donald Trump that Ukraine could win the war against Russia last year.

Private talks during the monarch’s state visit last September were “very important” to the US president’s about turn on Ukraine’s position, Mr Zelensky’s top adviser told The Telegraph at the time.

The US president said in September that Ukraine was in a position to take back all its land from Russian forces – a stark departure from his previous insistence that Ukraine should give up territory to Russia to end the war.

Sir Keir Starmer met Mr Zelensky, as well as Emmanuel Macron and Friedrich Merz, the leaders of France and Germany, to discuss how to put a greater squeeze on Russia on Sunday.

On Monday, Mr Zelensky stressed that Ukraine’s position is “about security in Europe”.

He told the Guardian: “British people helped us from the very beginning of this war, it’s true. It’s because of security, not only values.

“But it’s about security in Europe. It’s in the interests of the UK.”

The Ukrainian president also said he hopes Reform UK run councils will “put back” Ukrainian flags on civic buildings.

Asked about some Reform-run councils lowering the flags in favour of flying the Union Flag, Mr Zelensky said: “I hope they will put it back.

“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 friendship or huge contacts.”

The King reiterated his support for Ukraine in a message marking the anniversary of Britain’s 100-year partnership with the country in January.

The monarch said at the time: “As we also look ahead to the fourth anniversary of the full-scale invasion of your beloved country – a time of great anguish, I know, for many families across Ukraine and the world – my wife and I continue to keep you all in our heartfelt thoughts and prayers.

“I wish, above all, to convey my profound hope that Ukraine can achieve a just and lasting peace that safeguards its security, sovereignty and prosperity, in a way that Ukrainians deserve. We stand with you.”

https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2026/06/07/deluded-putin-missed-his-chance-for-peace/