Prince Harry said he has been “left deeply moved” in a new video as the royal sent a message of hope and support to Ukrainians on the anniversary of Russia’s invasion.
The Duke of Sussex has visited the country twice in the past year, describing it as an “honour” and a “privilege”.
The video was recorded for the Superhumans Centre in Lviv and features footage of Harry’s visits to Ukraine.
Harry has worked closely with the centre, which helps those suffering from the effects of war, providing prosthetics, reconstructive surgery and mental support.
Prince Harry said ‘the courage, dignity and unbreakable spirit of the Ukrainian people’ left him ‘deeply moved’ | INSTAGRAM/SUPERHUMANS.CENTRE/GETTY
The war broke out in Ukraine on February 24, 2022 and has been raging on for four years.
In the video, Harry said: “Over the past year, I have had the honour and privilege of visiting Ukraine twice.
“Each time, I left deeply moved by the courage, dignity and unbreakable spirit of the Ukrainian people, even in the midst of war, a war which continues to take the lives of civilians and service members every single day. Life goes on.
“I saw the strength of the Superhuman Centre during a visit in April and the determination of those rebuilding their bodies and their futures.”
Harry has visited Ukraine twice in the last year
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The duke continued: “I saw it in the resilience and pride of the Invictus Games veterans I met in Vancouver. And I saw it in the eyes of Ukrainians in Kyiv, eyes that carry both pain and unwavering hope.
“For four years, Ukraine has stood firm. You have shown the world what true resilience looks like.
“You have reminded us all that freedom and independence are never guaranteed and need protecting and, where necessary, fighting for.”
Turning his message to the present, the prince addressed Ukrainians “directly, to those on the front lines, and to those supporting from the home front”.
In his message, Harry said: ‘For four years, Ukraine has stood firm. You have shown the world what true resilience looks like’
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He said: “Your strength inspires the world. Your bravery unites us, and your hope lights a path forward for us all.
“Please know that you are not alone. The world stands with you, and we continue to learn from your courage every single day. Stay strong, stay brave, stay hopeful.”
He concluded his message with “Slava Ukraini”, which means “Glory to Ukraine” and has been used throughout its fight against Russia.
Numerous figures have been sharing their support for Ukraine throughout the day.
Prince Harry was previously seen visiting the site of a Russian strike
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Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said: “On this grim anniversary, our message to the Ukrainian people is simple: Britain is with you, stronger than ever. That is why we are announcing new support today, and we will continue to support Ukraine for as long as it takes.
“For all the noise in world affairs today, this war remains the most critical issue of our age. It asks the question of whether Ukrainian and European freedom will endure.
“Our answer, together, is unequivocal. Russia is not winning this war. They will not win this war. Ukraine’s courage continues to hold the line for our shared values in the face of Putin’s aggression.
“We will stand by their side, until a just and lasting peace – and beyond. Slava Ukraini.”