US President Donald Trump reacted to the arrest of Britain’s former royal Prince Andrew, describing the development as “a shame” and “very sad,” adding that it was “so bad for the royal family.”
Prince Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, the younger brother of King Charles III, was detained on Thursday on suspicion of misconduct linked to his past association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. After nearly 12 hours of questioning, he was released under investigation.
According to UK police, officers carried out searches at properties in Berkshire and Norfolk, including residences at Windsor and Sandringham, where Andrew has been staying since being asked to vacate Royal Lodge earlier this month. Authorities confirmed that a man in his 60s was arrested, though the initial statement did not officially name him. Andrew, who recently turned 66, was later seen leaving a police station in the evening.
Police later clarified that the suspect had been released while investigations continue. Searches in Norfolk have concluded, while operations at a Berkshire address remain ongoing.
Speaking to reporters, Trump said, “I think it’s a shame. I think it’s very sad. I think it’s so bad for the royal family,” expressing concern over the impact of the case on Britain’s monarchy.
Meanwhile, King Charles III issued a formal statement acknowledging the situation with “the deepest concern.” He emphasized that “the law must take its course” and affirmed full cooperation with investigators. The monarch stressed that the matter should proceed through a “full, fair and proper process” handled by the appropriate authorities.
Buckingham Palace reiterated its commitment to supporting the legal proceedings but declined further comment as the investigation continues. The King added that he and the royal family would continue fulfilling their public duties during the ongoing inquiry.
Prince Andrew has previously denied any wrongdoing related to Jeffrey Epstein and has stated that he neither witnessed nor suspected Epstein’s criminal conduct. He has not publicly commented on the latest allegations tied to misconduct in public office.
The arrest follows renewed scrutiny after the release of additional Epstein-related documents by the US Department of Justice. In recent months, King Charles III formally removed Andrew’s royal title and initiated steps to have him vacate his Windsor residence, where he had lived since 2003.
