Former US President Donald Trump publicly commented on the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s decision to relocate from the United States to the United Kingdom, calling their departure a positive development.
On September 4, 2024, Trump stated in the Oval Office that he was 'happy about it' regarding Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s move back to Britain with their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet. The family arrived in the UK on August 26, 2024, and are currently staying in the country for an 'extended period', according to reports.
Core Facts:
- The Sussexes, who stepped back from official royal duties in 2020, have relocated from Montecito, California, to the UK. Their children are expected to begin school in Britain this autumn.
- Trump, who has previously criticized the couple, reiterated his stance, stating he did not approve of their treatment of the royal family, particularly the late Queen Elizabeth II and King Charles III, who is currently undergoing cancer treatment.
Trump’s Statements and Criticism
During the briefing, Trump expressed his views on the Sussexes’ relocation, emphasizing his personal relationships with the British monarchy. He noted:
- 'I had a very good relationship with the Queen... I got to know her very well.'
- 'A really good relationship with King Charles... he’s a great guy.'
- 'I thought they treated the royal family with great disrespect.'
- 'I didn’t like the way she acted. I thought she was terribly disrespectful.'
Trump also suggested that if he were the royal family, he would not have allowed Harry and Meghan to return under their current circumstances.
Background on the Sussexes’ Move
The couple, who have maintained a private residence in California, announced their relocation to the UK in August 2024. Reports indicate they are considering a home in the Cotswolds, a region popular among wealthy American expatriates. Their children, Archie (7) and Lilibet (5), are expected to enroll in British schools this autumn.
The move does not appear to involve a return to official royal duties. The Sussexes remain non-working royals and have not indicated plans to resume public roles. Their relocation follows years of public scrutiny, including Harry’s 2021 interview with Oprah Winfrey, where he accused the royal family of neglect.
Reactions and Context
Trump’s comments align with his long-standing criticism of the Sussexes, which predates their relocation. In 2016, Meghan Markle, then an actress, made comments about Trump during the US presidential campaign, contributing to tensions. Trump has repeatedly expressed disapproval of the couple’s actions, including their 2020 decision to step back from royal duties and their subsequent move to the US.
The Sussexes have not publicly responded to Trump’s remarks. Buckingham Palace has not issued a statement regarding the couple’s relocation or Trump’s comments.
Key Details of the Relocation
- Date of Arrival: August 26, 2024
- Current Status: Extended stay in the UK
- Children’s Schooling: Enrollment in British schools planned for autumn 2024
- Residence: Considering a home in the Cotswolds
- Royal Role: No return to official duties announced