Sources close to William and Kate say the two are appalled by the scale of Andrew’s involvement in the Epstein files. William hopes that by addressing the topic ahead of his trip to Saudi Arabia, he is less likely to have to address it in person while on the ground for what is already a potentially controversial visit. William wants the focus to be on his meetings and building a better working relationship with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, not on the headlines regarding his uncle.
The trip, which is being made at the request of the British government, is particularly important for the Prince of Wales. It marks his first visit to the country and is important for bilateral relations between Saudi Arabia and the United Kingdom.
The agenda will focus on sports (Saudi Arabia is hosting the World Cup in 2034), tech, tourism, and education.
The Prince and Princess of Wales’s comments come amid mounting pressure by anti-monarchy groups for King Charles to address the allegations against his brother and issue an apology on Andrew’s behalf. Last week the anti-monarchy group Republic staged protests outside Buckingham Palace, covering the railings with crime scene tape and calling on Charles to address the claims about his brother.
In October 2025, Charles began the process of stripping his brother of his style, titles, and honors. In addition, Andrew lost his lease on Royal Lodge, the home where he had lived since the early aughts. Buckingham Palace aides confirmed last week that Andrew moved into Wood Farm on the Sandringham Estate while his new permanent home, Marsh Farm, is being renovated. He will not move into Marsh Farm until at least March.
