Britain's Prince Harry carried out a surprise visit to the western Ukrainian city of Lviv over the weekend, engaging with wounded military veterans and medical professionals. The trip, which took place on Saturday and Sunday, was kept confidential due to security concerns.
During his visit, the 42-year-old royal attended Ukraine's National Invictus Games, where he watched athletes compete in wheelchair rugby. He met with several participants, including Valery Odainyk, a leg amputee and active serviceman who previously competed in the Invictus Games in Canada. The games serve as a selection platform for Ukraine's team, with approximately 500 individuals currently vying for a spot in the 60-member squad destined for the 2027 event in Birmingham, England.
Prince Harry also addressed a conference organised by Superhumans, a clinic specialising in the rehabilitation of war-wounded soldiers. Speaking to an audience that included Ukraine's Health Minister Viktor Liashko, the prince stated, "You're going to win the war and then you're going to be set up for success." He further assured the veterans that the world would continue its support for the country.
The prince, who founded the Invictus Games Foundation in 2014, noted that he has taken a risk to visit the country, adding that he feels a sense of warmth and welcome every time he returns to Ukraine. He also indicated that his organisation would be prepared to support Ukraine in hosting its own Invictus Games once the war concludes.
Key facts
- This visit marks Prince Harry’s fourth trip to Ukraine since the Russian invasion began in 2022.
- The prince is 42 years old and is a former British army officer.
- Approximately 500 people have registered to compete for Ukraine's 60-member team for the 2027 Invictus Games.
- Ukraine currently has about 1.4 million combat veterans, with more than 10 percent experiencing disabilities.
Why it matters
The visit underscores the ongoing international focus on the rehabilitation of Ukrainian soldiers, who face significant challenges as the conflict continues. By meeting with clinic staff and athletes, the prince’s involvement highlights the role of adaptive sports in the recovery and integration of military personnel with disabilities.
Background
The Invictus Games Foundation was established by Prince Harry in 2014 to support the recovery of wounded, injured, and ill military service personnel and veterans through various adaptive sports programmes.
Source: Hindustan Times, Al Jazeera
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