Princess Kate Meets With Ukraine's First Lady Olena Zelenska At Buckingham Palace

Princess Kate has welcomed the First Lady of Ukraine, Olena Zelenska, ahead of Queen Elizabeth's funeral.

The royal held a special audience with Zelenska Sunday afternoon, as part of her new role as Princess of Wales. Kate met with the first lady at Buckingham Palace, where they were photographed chatting in a drawing room, ahead of King Charles' reception welcoming world leaders and dignitaries.

For the occasion, the princess wore a classic black coat dress, paired with sheer black tights and a pair of black heels. Her hair was styled in loose curls, and her accessories included a three-strand pearl bracelet.

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On Friday, September 9, William and Kate officially inherited the titles of Prince and Princess of Wales from King Charles III and the late Princess Diana. King Charles announced their new roles as part of his first public speech as a monarch, having acceded the throne immediately following the death of Queen Elizabeth II.

A royal source told BAZAAR.com at the time that the couple intend "on deepening the trust and respect of the people of Wales over time" and "will approach their roles in the modest and humble way they’ve approached their work previously."

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The source added that, while Princess Kate "appreciates the history associated with this role," she also wants "to look to the future as she creates her own path."

The royal has already accompanied Prince Harry on several outings throughout the past week, including a trip to Sandringham Estate to visit tributes left by the public, as well as a meeting with troops from the Commonwealth who are set to take part in Queen Elizabeth's funeral.

She also joined Queen Consort Camilla for Wednesday's procession honoring the late monarch, during which the two royals rode in a car that was being driven behind the late queen's coffin. Kate later stood at William's side during a reception held inside the Palace of Westminster.

For the occasion, the princess honored both the late queen and Princess Diana through her accessories. She finished her all-black mourning ensemble with two meaningful jewelry pieces: diamond-and-pearl drop earrings that once belonged to Princess Diana, and a stunning diamond-and-pearl brooch in the shape of three leaves that once belonged to Queen Elizabeth.

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