The Queen and Prince Charles are reportedly thinking of ways they can offer 'practical support' to Ukrainian refugees who have fled their country following the Russian invasion. So far, over three million Ukrainians have left their homes to seek refuge across Europe. Now, the Royal Household is possibly preparing to open its doors and provide a place for those entering the UK from Ukraine to live.
According to a source who spoke to OK!, Balmoral – the Queen's 50,000 acre Scottish estate – has been approached to host Ukrainian refugees in the accommodation typically used by staff. "Balmoral have been approached and I understand are keen to help but there are practicalities to overcome," the insider said. "However these should not be insurmountable given the goodwill out there."
Seemingly confirming the news, a Royal Household spokesperson responded: "The Royal Household is looking at a number of ways to offer practical help and support." In addition to the doors at the Balmoral estate potentially being opened up, Prince Charles is apparently thinking about welcoming refugees at his Scottish estate, Dumfries House, as well.
News of the Queen potentially hosting Ukrainian refugees comes just weeks after she showed a subtle sign of support for the war-torn country. During her first engagement since testing positive with COVID-19, Her Majesty met with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, and a blue and yellow floral arrangement – representing the colours of the Ukrainian flag – could be seen sitting on the console table in her Windsor Castle parlour room.
Prior to that, the Queen made a "generous donation" to support the people of Ukraine, confirmed by The Disasters Emergency Committee. "Many thanks to Her Majesty The Queen for continuing to support the Disasters Emergency Committee and for making a generous donation to the DEC Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal," the organisation wrote in a tweet, thanking the Queen for her help.
And she's not alone, with both Kate Middleton and Prince William pitching in too with a visit to the Ukrainian Cultural Centre in London where they met volunteers gathering supplies. Showing their support for the Ukrainian people, the Duke and Duchess both wore badges displaying the Ukrainian flag, and told volunteers: "We are all behind you."
They also touched upon how their three children have been dealing with the conflict, pointing out they've been having "difficult" conversations with them about it. "Ours [children] have been coming home asking all about it," William explained. "They are obviously talking about it with their friends at school."
