US president questions royal’s authority to speak on international affairs amid surprise Kyiv visit.
US President Donald Trump has dismissed comments made by Britain’s Prince Harry urging stronger American leadership on the war in Ukraine, responding with a personal remark about the Duke of Sussex’s wife, Meghan Markle.
During a press interaction in the Oval Office, Trump was asked about Prince Harry’s speech at the Kyiv Security Forum. Instead of directly addressing the call for US support, the president replied: “Prince Harry? How’s he doing? How’s his wife? Please give her my regards.”
He then added: “I know one thing: Prince Harry is not speaking for the UK. That’s for sure. I think I’m speaking for the UK more than Prince Harry. But I appreciate his advice.”
Prince Harry’s Ukraine visit:
Prince Harry made a surprise trip to Ukraine on April 23, where he delivered a passionate speech at the Kyiv Security Forum. Speaking as a former soldier and humanitarian-not as a politician-the Duke of Sussex called on the United States to “step up” and honour its international obligations to Ukraine, referencing the country’s decision to give up its nuclear weapons in exchange for security assurances.
Harry praised Ukrainian resilience and urged Russian President Vladimir Putin to “choose a different course,” while avoiding direct criticism of any specific leader.
Trump-Sussex Tensions Amid Ukraine Remarks:
The exchange highlights the longstanding friction between Trump and the Sussexes. Trump has previously clashed with the couple, notably after Meghan Markle criticised him during her time as a public figure.
The timing of Trump’s remarks comes just days before King Charles III is scheduled to visit the United States, adding another layer of complexity to transatlantic and royal relations.
British officials have not publicly commented on Trump’s response, while royal watchers note that Prince Harry no longer holds working royal status and speaks in a personal capacity.
The White House has not issued a formal statement on Harry’s Ukraine remarks beyond the president’s off-the-cuff comments.