Flags, armoured cars and embroidered Ukrainian clothes characterized the Ukrainian capital Kyiv, on August 24th 2022. The date marked six months since Russia’s invasion and Ukraine’s Independence Day. The day attracted a lot of attention across Europe and in Sweden, King Carl XVI Gustaf chose to send a telegram on the occasion of the day to President Zelenskyy.
The King of Sweden wrote in his statement: “On the occasion of the Independence Day of Ukraine, I wish to convey to Your Excellency my sincere congratulations, together with my best wishes to the people of Ukraine.
His Majesty continued: “I also wish to express my respect for the tremendous resolve and courage of the people of Ukraine during these extremely difficult times.”
As a direct consequence of the war in Ukraine, Finland together Sweden, has applied for membership of NATO. In the past year, the Swedish royal family has had a special focus on support for Ukraine and Sweden’s ability to defend itself.
The Swedish king has previously strongly condemned the Russian attack on Ukraine. King Carl Gustaf did this in full military uniform during a visit to a regiment in Karlsborg on March 7th 2022. The speech was made as he presided over the handover of a new standard to the Life Regiment’s Hussars K3 in Karlsborg.
The King then said: “Europe is in an extremely difficult situation. More difficult than in a very long time. Russia has invaded Ukraine. This is contrary to international law and puts fundamental freedoms and rights out of play. The humanitarian catastrophe is a fact. People are fleeing their homes and their country. Families are divided. Innocent people die.”
