Prince Charles condemns Russia's invasion of Ukraine, says democracy is under threat
The UK's Prince Charles has decried the invasion of Ukraine, saying the values of democracy are under attack.
Key points:
Prince William and the Duchess of Cambridge Kate Middleton have said they too stand with Ukraine
It is unusual for members of the royal family to make public comments on politics
Queen Elizabeth has now resumed video calls after her COVID-19 diagnosis last week
"In the stand we take here, we are in solidarity with all those who are resisting brutal aggression," Prince Charles told an event marking Southend-on-Sea in Essex becoming a city.
The town's new status comes after its MP Sir David Amess was killed in a terrorist attack in October 2021.
Prince Charles said Amess's killing had been an attack on democracy, open society and freedom, arguing the same values were being threatened in Ukraine under Russia's invasion.
Over the weekend, Prince William and his wife Kate Middleton, the Duchess of Cambridge, said they stood with the people of Ukraine.
"In October 2020 we had the privilege to meet President (Volodymyr) Zelenskyy and the First Lady to learn of their hope and optimism for Ukraine’s future," Prince William, Queen Elizabeth's grandson, and Kate said on Twitter.
"Today we stand with the President and all of Ukraine’s people as they bravely fight for that future," they said.
It is rare for members of the Royal family to comment publicly on political issues.
Queen resumes video calls after COVID infection
After testing positive for COVID-19 just over a week ago, Queen Elizabeth felt well enough to undertake two virtual audiences on Tuesday. She had cancelled similar events last week.
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-03-02/prince-charles-ukraine-invasion-russia/100873864