Queen Camilla makes rare political remark about Ukraine in Guildhall speech

Queen Camilla delivered a rare and striking political message on the war in Ukraine during a speech at the Guildhall on Thursday evening, reflecting on Britain’s long military history.

The Queen, dressed in an elegant festive red velvet Fiona Clare gown, addressed guests in her role as Colonel-in-Chief of The Rifles.

Camilla began by honouring the regiment’s role in the Crimean War, linking it to the present-day conflict unfolding in the same region. "Only recently we marked the 80th anniversaries of both victory in Europe and victory over Japan,” she shared.

“During these moments of commemoration, I was fortunate to speak privately with so many of our surviving veterans who voiced a clear and unanimous plea, the path to peace must be pursued with the same vigour and determination that our Forces prepare for combat,” she added.

Drawing a historic parallel, Her Majesty added: "It is only fitting, then, to rewind the clock 170 years, when The Rifles' antecedents stood alongside our European allies in modern-day Ukraine."

Camilla then delivered her five-word warning, urging perseverance and unity as the war enters another year: "Let us hope, as our antecedents did then, that our resolve to stand up to tyranny in this same region can again find a resolution to another devastating and brutal war."

The Queen also took time to thank her equerry, Major Ollie Plunket, who is stepping down after three years of service. She said: "I would like to say a huge thank you to Major Ollie Plunket, who has been my staunch equerry for the past three years."

Camilla succeeded Prince Philip as Colonel-in-Chief of The Rifles in July 2020, continuing the deep military connection established by her father, Major Bruce Shand.

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