Prince William, Kate Middleton Break Silence On Russian Invasion Of Ukraine

Prince William and his wife Kate Middleton have publicly expressed support for the people of Ukraine as Russia continues to invade the Eastern European country.

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge issued their joint statement via Twitter Saturday amid the Russian invasion of several Ukrainian cities.

"In October 2020, we had the privilege to meet President [Volodymyr] Zelenskyy and the First Lady to learn of their hope and optimism for Ukraine's future," Prince William and Duchess Kate wrote.

"Today we stand with the President and all of Ukraine’s people as they bravely fight for that future," they continued.

The royal couple ended the post with an emoji of the Ukraine flag and their initials "W & C."

Prince William and Middleton's move was met with praise on Twitter, though some were surprised as members of the royal family do not usually comment on political matters.

"Bravo for the sentiments, but isn't this involving the Crown in politics? Perhaps [Prince Harry and Meghan Markle] are having a positive effect on [Prince William and Middleton]," one person suggested.

"I thought the British royal family was not supposed to get involved in politics. Well, I am really happy to see this message. Ukraine needs all the support they can get. The support of the future king and queen is very significant and welcome," another Twitter user commented.

"Thank you so much for your support! And thank you to the U.K. government for everything they have done for Ukraine!" a third person wrote.

However, one commented that the gesture came "kind of late" as Russian President Vladimir Putin's troops began to invade Ukraine Thursday.

Meanwhile, other social media made comparisons between the Cambridges and Prince Harry and his wife Meghan Markle, who issued their own statement on the invasion Thursday.

"[It's] funny that when Meghan and Harry said it first, they were shown hatred and [were told] it was attention-seeking. How come when these two say the same thing, it's all love and applause?? Hypocrisy much??" one Twitter user commented.

In their joint statement, which was posted on their Archewell website, Prince Harry and Markle said they were hopeful for a peaceful outcome.

"Prince Harry and Meghan, The Duke and Duchess of Sussex and all of us at Archewell stand with the people of Ukraine against this breach of international and humanitarian law and encourage the global community and its leaders to do the same," their statement read.

The members of the British royal family have never voted in a political election, although Queen Elizabeth II has encouraged citizens to vote in the past, Page Six noted.

"The Queen has to remain strictly neutral with respect to political matters," the official royal website reads. "By convention, The Queen does not vote or stand for election."