Ukraine’s First Lady joined by Camilla at event

THE Queen Consort has said that “heinous crimes” committed against women and girls must end, as she was joined by Ukraine’s First Lady at an event to raise awareness of such violence.

Olena Zelenska was one of about 300 people at a reception at Buckingham Palace, where Camilla told guests of her determination to “remember and to listen” to survivors’ stories, which she said were two of the most powerful ways to help.

Ms Zelenska, who is addressing Parliament in London yesterday, said it “means a lot” that she was invited to the reception at the palace.

The wife of the Ukrainian president said many rapes had been committed since Russian president Vladimir

Putin’s invasion of her country and that it was important the democratic world unites in the face of violence against women and girls.

Speaking to the PA news agency through a translator, she said: “We now face a huge amount of rapes of Ukrainian women and children by Russian soldiers.

“This afternoon I will have the honour to speak in front of the Parliament of the UK.

“The youngest victim of rape (in Ukraine) is four and eldest is 85.

“When the efforts of the democratic world unite to combat challenges like this, it always gives hope that we will win.”

Camilla had a private meeting with Ms

Zelenska in the Regency Room of Buckingham Palace after the reception.

Others at the event included Queen Mathilde of Belgium, Queen Rania of Jordan and Crown Princess Mary of Denmark.

Former Spice Girl Mel B and television presenter Lorraine Kelly were also present, and Carrie Johnson, wife of former prime minister Boris.