Prince Harry has reportedly dashed another opportunity for King Charles to spend time with his grandchildren, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet.
The Duke of Sussex is set to travel solo to the UK to testify in his High Court case against News Group Newspapers, leaving his children behind in California with Meghan Markle.
The decision to leave Archie and Lilibet in the U.S. stems from ongoing security concerns, according to a report.
A friend of Harry told Hello! Magazine, “Safe visits would enable his children to know his home country and enable him to better support his charities.”
Despite this, the Prince Harry’s solo visits to UK continue to raise eyebrows within royal famil circles.
Adding to the complexity, royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams speculates that Harry’s decision to stay in a hotel rather than at Buckingham Palace during his trips may be a form of silent protest.
Speaking to GB News, Fitzwilliams said, “We know Buckingham Palace was offered for the last visit and rejected in favor of a hotel. That decision has never been fully explained. It’s obviously part of a protest.”
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This is not the first time Harry has opted out of staying at the Palace. During his previous UK court appearance in 2023, he also chose hotel accommodations over the royal residence.
Fitzwilliams added, “It’s a surprising choice, considering the logistical and security advantages of staying at the Palace.”
King Charles, who has repeatedly expressed a desire to maintain a relationship with his grandchildren, is reportedly disheartened by the situation.
The strained dynamic between Harry and the royal family only seems to widen the divide, making it increasingly difficult for Archie and Lilibet to connect with their British heritage.
Harry’s legal battles and choices regarding his UK visits highlight the ongoing tension between his independent pursuits and his ties to the royal family.
As the Duke prepares to testify in court, questions linger about when—or if—the grandchildren of the King will have a chance to forge a bond with their royal relatives.
