King Charles III Visits Milton Keynes and Meets the Ukrainian Community

Milton Keynes marked a historic milestone as it celebrated its newly granted city status — and the occasion was honoured by a special visit from His Majesty King Charles III. During the celebration, the King met with a range of community groups that represent the diversity, resilience and civic spirit of Milton Keynes. Among them was the Ukrainian community, represented by volunteers and leaders from Ukraine Appeal, a Milton Keynes–based charity supporting Ukrainian refugees and delivering humanitarian aid to Ukraine.

Members of the Ukrainian community were invited to greet His Majesty as part of the official programme. Representatives of Ukraine Appeal — including one of the charity’s funders Viktoriya Shtanko — had the opportunity to speak with the King about the charity’s work, the challenges faced by Ukrainian families displaced by the war, and the ongoing humanitarian needs in Ukraine.

They described the experience as deeply meaningful, noting that the King showed genuine interest in the situation in Ukraine and the efforts of local volunteers in Milton Keynes. During the meeting, the charity presented His Majesty with a Ukrainian flag signed by defenders in Ukraine — a symbolic gesture to raise awareness of the ongoing struggle and the strength of the Ukrainian people.

Ukraine Appeal, founded shortly after the full‑scale invasion, supports Ukrainian refugees in Milton Keynes through community programmes, cultural activities, wellbeing support and the Sunflower Ukrainian Supplementary School. The charity also coordinates humanitarian aid shipments to Ukraine, including medical supplies, hygiene items and essential goods.

The King’s visit highlighted not only Milton Keynes’ new city status but also the vital role of community organisations — including the Ukrainian community — in shaping the city’s identity. For Ukraine Appeal and the families they support, the meeting was a moment of recognition, solidarity and hope.