Meghan Markle Ignores Reporters Questions About Father Thomas Markle’s Arrest During Brussels Appearance
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry ignored reporters’ questions about her father, Thomas Markle Sr, during their first public appearance together since his reported arrest.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex arrived at the European Parliament in Brussels on Tuesday, both dressed in black and wearing poppy pins ahead of Remembrance Day.
The couple appeared in good spirits as they entered the building, with Meghan holding on to Harry as they made their way inside.
They were also seen speaking with people believed to be organisers of the event before reporters began asking questions about the situation involving Thomas.
One journalist was heard asking Meghan: “Meghan, how are you feeling and how are you coping?”
Another reporter called out: “Meghan, Harry, any comment on the situation?”
However, neither the Duchess nor the Duke stopped to respond, instead continuing to walk into the building without acknowledging the questions.
Their appearance in Brussels came as the couple prepared to open their Lost Screen Memorial at the European Parliament.
Harry and Meghan had initially been expected to deliver addresses during the event, but the programme was changed shortly before their appearance.
A spokesperson for the Duchess revealed that Harry would deliver the keynote speech alone because Meghan was “just not strong enough, emotionally, to be doing any public speaking right now”.
The change came amid reports that Meghan has been experiencing deep distress following the arrest of her estranged father.
Thomas Markle Sr was reportedly arrested by the FBI on Friday and has been charged with possession of child abuse material, according to the supplied reports.
The situation has drawn renewed attention to the longstanding estrangement between Meghan and her father, who have had a difficult relationship for several years.
Meghan has previously expressed concern for victims affected by child abuse and voiced hope that justice would be served.
Her decision not to take part in the public address has therefore attracted attention, particularly as she and Harry continued with their scheduled appearance in Brussels.
The couple have not publicly addressed the reporters’ questions about Thomas during the visit, leaving Harry’s keynote speech as the main public engagement for the Sussexes at the European Parliament.
