New Delhi: The word "alien" has more serious connotations today than one can imagine. It is evidently bespeaks of "otherness", implying racial discrimination.
Now Prince William perhaps knows it only too well—how an otherwise venial expression could land one in trouble.
Visiting Ukrainian cultural Centre in London Thursday, he reportedly said "It's very alien to see war and bloodshed in Europe. We are all behind you".
The comments went viral after British publication, The Independent reported it, sparking outrage on Twitter.
He is the latest to face ire on social over racist attitudes in responding to the crisis Ukrainians are facing.
Many people have called his response 'disgusting and racist'.
As the full-blow war descended on Ukraine has given rise to a refugee crisis reminiscent of situation during World War II.
As Ukrainians are fleeing, the stories of discrimination against people of colour trying to cross the border having been making headlines.
The prime ministers of Bulgaria and Poland faced ire for saying that they would accept any number of refugees because, "these are not the refugees we are used to. These are intelligent and educated people."
Another more demeaning statement in media said about wars meant only for "impoverished and remote" countries, not for a" civilised" country with people having "Blue eyes and blonde hair"
Now Prince William's comment on Ukraine war and bloodshed ' being alien' reminded people " impoverished and remote', sparking outrage.