Prince Harry's covert overnight train journey from Poland to Ukraine
Prince Harry emerged from an overnight train from Poland at Kyiv's railway hub
Prince Harry emerged from an overnight train from Poland at Kyiv's railway hub, embarking on an unexpected journey to the heart of Ukraine.
The Duke of Sussex’s surprise trip coincides with Ukraine's ongoing effort to resist Russian forces in a conflict that has spanned over four years.
Upon arriving, Prince Harry declared, "It's wonderful to return to Ukraine."
In a conversation with ITV News, he shared his wish "to highlight to everyone back home and globally the challenges Ukraine faces and to support those who tirelessly operate in extreme conditions every single day."
The Duke emphasised Ukraine's bravery in shielding Europe’s eastern frontier, underlining how pivotal it is to keep this battle in focus.
Key Western defense and governmental figures have convened in Kyiv for the Kyiv Security Conference, where Harry is poised to speak.
During his address, the Duke will implore global leaders to avoid becoming "indifferent" to this or any similar conflict, referencing his military past and ties to Invictus Games athletes.
"This conflict revolves around principles, not solely land," Harry will convey at the conference.
The royal aims to highlight that Ukraine's fight extends much beyond a mere territorial contention, cautioning against the long-term impact of this strife.
Harry plans to denounce the forced relocation of Ukrainian children by Russian forces, labeling it a "systematic and deliberate" action destined for repercussions at the International Criminal Court.
The Duke's journey follows shortly after a tour of Australia with his wife, Meghan.
Excited about reuniting with acquaintances, Prince Harry mentioned, "I'm eager to meet friends, reconnect with the Invictus family, and stand beside those aiding Ukraine in prevailing."
Moreover, the Duke of Sussex will express his backing for the Invictus Games Foundation on this visit, as the tally of severely injured Ukrainian soldiers climbs rapidly.
During the trip, Harry will also observe the perilous work of The Halo Trust, the mine-clearing charity his late mother, Princess Diana, famously supported during her trip to Angola in 1997.
Civilians continue to face the dangers of landmines and Russian ammunition left in former battlefield areas.
The Ukrainian branch of The Halo Trust represents their largest worldwide presence, employing 1,300 personnel focused on removing explosive hazards.