King will not meet Epstein survivors on US visit

King Will Not Meet Epstein Survivors During US Visit

Buckingham Palace has confirmed that the King and Queen will not meet with survivors of Jeffrey Epstein during their upcoming US state visit. The visit, scheduled from 27 to 30 April, will mark the 250th anniversary of US independence and highlight the enduring partnership between the UK and US, described as one of “shared prosperity, security and history.”

Despite the strained relationship between the UK and US, particularly over Iran war-related disputes, the monarchy’s role in maintaining diplomatic ties is seen as crucial. A Foreign Office spokesperson emphasized that the UK and US remain close allies, even as they disagree on certain issues. “We are close allies, we do disagree on things, but that doesn’t detract from the value that both sides get from this relationship,” the statement read.

Queen Camilla, however, is set to engage with representatives of organizations focused on combating domestic abuse and violence against women. Palace sources noted her longstanding advocacy for survivors, with her recent speech at St James’s Palace seen as subtly referencing the plight of Epstein’s victims. “To every survivor of every kind of violence, many of whom have not been able to tell their stories or who have not been believed, please know that you are not alone,” she said.

Palace officials stated that while they recognize the survivors’ stance, they believe the meeting could hinder legal investigations and compromise the victims’ quest for justice. “We fully understand and appreciate the survivors’ position, but can only reiterate that our position is clear: anything that could impact ongoing police inquiries or legal action would be detrimental to their pursuit of justice,” a source explained.

The decision comes amid heightened calls for the royal couple to meet Epstein survivors following the Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor controversy. US Congressman Ro Khanna, Epstein survivor Lisa Phillips, and the family of the late Virginia Giuffre have all urged such a meeting. However, the Palace insists the timing is critical to avoid disrupting the legal process.

Trump has consistently praised the royal family, including a previous social media post where he declared, “I would look forward to spending time with the King, whom I greatly respect. It will be TERRIFIC!” Yet, the visit coincides with unusually tense relations, as Trump recently targeted Sir Keir Starmer with pointed remarks during disagreements over the Iran war.

Itinerary details revealed on Tuesday indicate the King will travel to Bermuda after the US trip, before returning to the UK. Subscribers can join the Royal Watch newsletter to stay updated on royal news and analysis.

“Mature alliances are not about pretending differences don’t exist; they are about addressing them directly, respectfully, and with a focus on results,” Sir Keir Starmer stated earlier this year regarding the UK and US tensions.