Prince Harry's recent return to the United Kingdom has been described as a "painful mess" for the Royal Family, according to royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams. The Duke of Sussex's brief visit, which lasted from Tuesday to Thursday last week, did not include any meetings with senior members of the Royal Family, including his father, King Charles III, due to the monarch's busy schedule.
A spokesperson for Prince Harry confirmed the lack of a father-son meeting, stating, "The Duke of course is understanding of his father's diary of commitments and various other priorities and hopes to see him soon." The strained relationship between the Duke and the Royal Family was further highlighted by his swift departure to Nigeria, where he and his wife, Meghan Markle, undertook an overseas tour focused on the Invictus Games and mental health awareness.
Fitzwilliams noted that the Royal Family has little choice but to accept the Sussexes' independent actions, stating, "If they find it pays and they find it useful to their brand, which it is, then they will do more [overseas engagements]." He emphasized the importance of a peaceful co-existence between the Sussexes and the Royal Family, despite the challenges posed by Harry's recent visit.
As the Duke and Duchess of Sussex plan more international trips, concerns have been raised about the potential dangers of their "quasi-royal tours." Royal expert Richard Eden has urged King Charles III to step in and put a stop to these visits, warning that they could be manipulated by foreign governments without the control and oversight typically provided by the British foreign office for official royal trips.
Eden, speaking on Palace Confidential, stated, "Harry and Meghan are open to being manipulated by foreign governments who may not have the interests at heart of Britain or America and I think it is dangerous." He called on the King to take action to prevent such risks.
Despite the strained relations with the Royal Family, the Sussexes remain committed to their international engagements. A source close to the couple told The Mirror, "The Duke and Duchess have other trips planned for the remainder of the year. They are hoping to be able to share more details in the coming weeks. It is definitely possible they could return to Africa for more tours after that."
Prince Harry himself emphasized the importance of their international work, telling People magazine, "It is hugely important for us to meet directly with people, supporting our causes and listening, in order to bring about solutions, support and positive change." He acknowledged the limitations of working remotely and expressed his eagerness to continue traveling for their various causes, including the Archewell Foundation and the Invictus Games.
The Sussexes' determination to pursue their own agenda and engage in international tours has further complicated their relationship with the Royal Family. While the couple stepped down as working members of the Royal Family in 2020, their continued high-profile activities have drawn both praise and criticism.
