Ukrainian and UK bands perform together to mark Independence Day

The Ukrainian Naval Band have performed alongside the Band of the Scots Guards outside Buckingham Palace during the Changing of the Guard to mark Ukrainian Independence Day.

The two bands marched together from Wellington Barracks to the palace before playing together.

Celebrating the bonds that unite Kyiv with London, the bands performed Stand By Me by Ben E King.

It is rare for bands from other countries to have the opportunity to play in the Changing of the Guard ceremony.

This was one of several events that commemorated Ukraine’s 34th year of independence, which has been under threat since the Russian invasion of the country in February 2022.

The Changing of the Guard is a ceremonial event performed in a tradition that dates back to Henry III, serving as a display of national pride and tradition.