Prince Harry steps out in tuxedo for gala with special auction item from past

Prince Harry made an unexpected appearance in London on Thursday evening.

The Prince added another surprise to the day after Meghan Markle unveiled her latest festive venture with an advent calendar launch.

Read More: Meghan finally launches As Ever's highly anticipated collection

The Duke of Sussex arrived at the Imperial War Museum for the United for Freedom gala, a black-tie fundraising event supporting charities helping Ukraine amid the ongoing war.

Dressed in a classic black tuxedo and bow tie, the 42-year-old royal was pictured smiling and waving to photographers as he made his way inside.

Among the auction lots was Harry’s bestselling memoir, Spare, making the book part of the evening’s efforts to raise funds for the cause.

Harry has drawn on his own experiences of visiting Ukraine to speak about the devastating human cost of the conflict.

During his address, he reflected on the historic links between Britain and Ukraine before describing the people he had encountered whose lives had been irrevocably changed by the war.

“I have seen something in Ukraine that makes it impossible for me to look away,” he told guests.

He spoke of meeting people who had lost limbs, homes and loved ones, yet had found the determination to begin rebuilding their lives despite the immense challenges they faced.

The Duke also paid tribute to members of the Invictus community, whose experiences of military service and injuries have not prevented them from pursuing new goals.

The Royal Observer on X: "Prince Harry has opened up about the emotional impact of leaving the British Army after a decade of service. Addressing NATO’s Military Committee, the Duke of Sussex revealed that hanging up his uniform left him feeling as though he had lost part of his “purpose and identi… / X

Prince Harry has opened up about the emotional impact of leaving the British Army after a decade of service. Addressing NATO’s Military Committee, the Duke of Sussex revealed that hanging up his uniform left him feeling as though he had lost part of his “purpose and identity.”

Describing men and women who continue to compete, lead, laugh and look towards the future, Harry said: “That is national resilience in its truest form.”

“Their resilience should never become an excuse for the rest of us to tolerate their suffering,” he said.

Read More: Prince Harry joins NATO talks on ambitious new support network

Harry concluded with a direct appeal for continued commitment to the country and its people, declaring: “Their courage deserves more than our admiration. It deserves our resolve.”