As Prince Harry gears up for his anticipated return to the UK to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Invictus Games, speculation is rife about whether Meghan Markle will accompany him. Royal historian Marlene Koenig suggests that Markle's return to the UK may be contingent on significant events, hinting at her possibly being "done" with the country.
The upcoming visit also renews focus on the royal family's dynamics, particularly highlighted in the recent Netflix dramatization, "Scoop," which portrays events leading up to Prince Andrew's controversial interview on BBC's Newsnight. Royal experts, including Jennie Bond, have commented on the potential discomfort the film could cause within the royal family, emphasizing the unwelcome attention it brings to Prince Andrew.
Further complicating the family narrative, Prince William's feelings towards his brother Prince Harry are described as a mix of sadness and bewilderment by royal authors. Despite their strained relationship, the importance of Harry's visit lies in its potential to address or exacerbate existing tensions, especially in light of recent challenges faced by the Prince and Princess of Wales.
Comparisons are also being drawn between Prince Harry and Meghan Markle and historical figures King Edward VIII and Wallis Simpson. Royal commentator Alexander Larman describes the Sussexes as a "modern-day" version of the controversial couple, noting similarities in their attitudes and public perceptions.
Amid these comparisons and historical parallels, Prince Harry has openly discussed his evolving relationship with Prince William. Promoting his memoir "Spare," Harry reflects on the insights he's gained into sibling dynamics through his children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, offering a personal glimpse into his understanding of brotherly relationships.
Meanwhile, Prince Harry has been advised to maintain a stance of neutrality in American politics, particularly in light of the forthcoming presidential election, to circumvent potential repercussions from Donald Trump, should the former president reclaim office. This advice follows Trump's stark criticism of Harry, in which he accused the Duke of Sussex of betraying Queen Elizabeth II and hinted at possible deportation risks tied to Harry's visa status in the US.
In a revealing interview with the Daily Express US, Trump expressed his disapproval of Harry, emphasizing that he would not offer protection to someone he believes has betrayed the monarchy. "I wouldn’t protect him. He betrayed the Queen. That’s unforgivable. He would be on his own if it was down to me," Trump declared, responding to Harry's candid revelations of past drug use in his memoir, "Spare."
Public relations expert Ryan McCormick cautioned Prince Harry about the dangers of taking a partisan stance in the US political arena. Speaking to The Mirror, McCormick highlighted the risk of antagonizing Trump, noting the former president's history of personal vendettas.
"Trump has publicly chastised the Duke's mannerisms and even saying he 'betrayed the Queen.' America's ex-commander-in-chief has a history of taking things very personally. He could very well make an example of Harry by cancelling his visa," McCormick explained.
During an interview with Nigel Farage on GB News, Trump alluded to the implications of Harry's drug use admission, suggesting that it could have legal consequences concerning his residence in the US. When pressed by Farage about the possibility of Harry's expulsion, Trump remained non-committal, implying that the issue warrants further investigation.
The revelation of Harry's drug use in his memoir has sparked discussions about its potential impact on his US visa status. Under American immigration laws, a history of drug use can be a basis for visa denial, presenting a possible challenge for the Duke.
Peggy Grande, a former White House staffer and Ronald Reagan's ex-personal assistant, conveyed to Daily Express US that Trump's stance on Harry's visa situation is personal. Grande speculated that Trump would be inclined to ensure that Harry does not receive preferential treatment if discrepancies regarding drug use on his visa application were uncovered.
