Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has personally thanked the King for his “unwavering support” for Ukraine as the pair met at Buckingham Palace.
The monarch welcomed the president in the Chinese Dining Room of the royal residence in central London on Wednesday afternoon.
Mr Zelensky wrote on X afterwards: “I thank His Majesty King Charles III for the audience.
“It is important for me to have the opportunity to personally thank him for his unwavering support for Ukraine.
“We appreciate all the assistance provided by the United Kingdom.”
Mr Zelensky has travelled to the UK for talks with Prime Minister Andy Burnham, who is set to welcome him to Downing Street in a show of support after US President Donald Trump’s diesel deal with Russia.
The monarch and Volodymyr Zelensky during the audience (Aaron Chown/PA)
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The Prime Minister is expected to use the visit to announce an acceleration of military support for Ukraine, and to pledge further rounds of sanctions aimed at Moscow.
Charles and Mr Zelensky, who enjoy a warm rapport, were pictured shaking hands and deep in conversation.
They moved through to the King’s private audience room for discussions which lasted around 25 minutes.
Mr Zelensky wrote on social media earlier in the day that he was preparing to meet the King and then the Prime Minister.
Soldiers from the Number 12 Company of the Irish Guards prepare for the ceremonial arrival of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky to Downing Street (Jordan Pettitt/PA)
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He said: “There will also be an important meeting with Prime Minister Andy Burnham.
“We will discuss a wide range of security issues. We are preparing decisions that will strengthen us.
“I thank the King, the Prime Minister, and all of Britain for their support!”