Renewed tensions between Meghan Markle and Kate Middleton are drawing fresh scrutiny inside and outside Buckingham Palace, as new reports claim the Duchess of Sussex is refusing to apologise and instead insists she deserves the same level of respect as the Princess of Wales. The dispute comes at a delicate moment for the royal family as King Charles III faces broader institutional challenges and the Prince and Princess of Wales assume expanded public roles.
According to Geo News, Meghan has made clear through associates that she will not apologise to Kate and believes she has "much more significant things to look after" than reconciliation. An unnamed source cited by the outlet said Meghan feels Kate "owes her an apology," a stance that underscores long-standing frustrations about what Meghan sees as unequal treatment within the monarchy.
Kate, who has faced intense public scrutiny since becoming Princess of Wales, has reportedly asked for a "genuine apology" from Meghan before any rapprochement. Heat Magazine, as relayed through Geo News, described Kate's view that she "has been through enough" and wants acknowledgment of past incidents-including the often-referenced disagreement over lip gloss before Meghan's wedding. Commentators say Kate is determined to protect her public image and personal dignity in navigating the strained relationship.
Meghan, however, has remained firm in her position. Sources close to her say she is not sorry for demanding equal respect, arguing she should receive the same reverence accorded to Kate. She has criticized what she views as institutional hypocrisy and says she faced harsher media treatment compared with her sister-in-law. Supporters frame her stance as an extension of her resistance to rigid royal customs and her efforts to establish an independent identity outside the Palace.
Public reaction has amplified the divide. A TikTok video comparing public behavior toward the two women went viral, highlighting contrasting responses at recent events. Newsweek noted that crowds "paid tribute to Kate" at the 2025 Irish Guards St. Patrick's Day Parade, while Meghan's curtsy to Queen Elizabeth II was "ridiculed on social media." The juxtaposition renewed debate about why Kate is widely perceived as a steward of royal tradition while Meghan is cast as a disruptor.
The timing of the revived rift complicates the monarchy's broader agenda. King Charles is still managing scrutiny related to his handling of issues involving Prince Andrew, and royal analysts say any renewed conflict between the women risks overshadowing the Palace's efforts to project unity. As Prince William and Kate expand their duties, persistent friction with Meghan is particularly unwelcome.
For Meghan and Prince Harry, who continue building their independent brand in the United States through media projects and public appearances, the dispute reopens questions about their evolving relationship with the royal institution. The contrast between Kate's adherence to traditional expectations and Meghan's modern, outspoken approach reflects a larger struggle within the monarchy to satisfy both long-held conventions and contemporary public expectations.
