Prince Harry has made significant revelations during an interview following his surprise visit to Ukraine earlier this week. Speaking to The Guardian, the Duke of Sussex expressed a desire to spend more time with his father, King Charles, and potentially bring his children to the UK. This visit was part of his ongoing commitment to the Invictus Games, an organization he founded to support injured veterans. Harry traveled to Ukraine via Poland, taking a train to Kyiv.
During his visit, Prince Harry pledged to do “everything possible” to assist the thousands of Ukrainian soldiers and service personnel injured in the ongoing conflict with Russia. This marks his second visit to Ukraine this year, having previously visited in April. He stated,
“We cannot stop the war but what we can do is do everything we can to help the recovery process.”
Strengthening Family Ties
In a rare public comment about his relationship with King Charles, Prince Harry emphasized the importance of focusing on his father in the coming year. The two had their first face-to-face meeting since 2024 earlier this week, enjoying a private tea at Clarence House. Both Buckingham Palace and the Duke’s office confirmed the meeting but declined to provide further details.
Harry’s comments suggest a potential thaw in the often-publicized tensions within the royal family. He expressed a desire to bring his children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, to the UK, stating,
“Yes I would. This week has definitely brought that closer.”
He further shared his affection for the UK, highlighting the joy of reconnecting with causes close to his heart.
The Invictus Connection
Prince Harry credited his work with the Invictus Games for providing him with a renewed sense of purpose after leaving the military. He remarked,
“The one thing that people miss when they hang up their uniform is purpose. Losing a sense of community and being part of a team, and of course the camaraderie and adrenaline.”
The Invictus Games, founded in 2014, have become a symbol of resilience and recovery for injured veterans worldwide.
Olga Rudnieva, CEO of the Superhumans trauma center in Ukraine, praised Harry for his support, noting,
“It’s amazing. We never expected this level of recognition. Ordinary people know who he is. I think Prince Harry coming here is a symbol of victory and power.”
His visit to a site struck by a Russian attack underscores his commitment to highlighting the plight of those affected by the conflict.
Unconfirmed Meeting with Zelensky
Speculation surrounds a possible meeting between Prince Harry and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky during his visit. Reports suggest that Harry may have discreetly met with Zelensky, although neither party has confirmed this encounter. The Ukrainian president has previously expressed support for the Invictus Games and indicated a desire to meet the Duke.
Public Support Amidst Legal Battles
Despite ongoing legal battles with the British press, Prince Harry expressed feeling “a lot of support from the British public.” He is currently suing Associated Newspapers, the publisher of the Daily Mail, over allegations of phone-hacking and other unlawful information gathering dating back 30 years. Harry stated,
“I feel a lot of support from the British public. Even now, when I feel like I have been destroyed by certain members of the British press.”
He criticized elements of the press for being out of touch with public sentiment.
The Duke’s visit to Ukraine and his candid interview reflect his ongoing commitment to humanitarian causes and his efforts to reconcile personal and public life. As he continues to navigate his role outside the traditional royal framework, Prince Harry’s actions and words remain closely watched by both supporters and critics alike.
