Why Prince William Made Time for Donald Trump — but Didn't For Harry, Just Days Apart
Prince William’s diary may be full, but it’s no secret he has the final say over what makes it onto his schedule. This week, he chose to take centre stage as the royal family welcomed Donald Trump on his state visit to the UK. Interestingly, just days earlier, when Prince Harry was in the UK for a series of engagements, William made no effort to meet him. This contrast has ignited the obvious questions about priorities and whether it was a deliberate choice.
William and Kate Middleton were given a prominent role in welcoming the US President and First Lady, Melania Trump. The couple greeted their American guests as their helicopter touched down on Windsor grounds, joining them for a ceremonial welcome and a private lunch before the lavish state banquet hosted in the Trumps' honor. For William, the event was a way to showcase his growing influence as heir to the throne and his part in bolstering Britain’s important ties.
But just a week earlier, when his beloved younger brother was in town for several public engagements of his own, William’s diary made no room for the ‘spare.’ The two Princes, once inseparable, have been at odds for years, their relationship breaking down after the Duke and Duchess of Sussex stepped back from royal duties in 2020. While some might have hoped for even a discreet reunion, sources suggest William sees things differently.
According to royal aides, his choice to prioritize Trump over Harry was not a snub in isolation but part of a wider understanding of his role. The heir to the throne has long been described as a ‘key player’ in the UK’s charm offensive strategy, particularly when it comes to the transatlantic relationships. His visibility alongside Trump at Windsor was an echo of his previous meeting with the President in Paris last December.
A source told The Telegraph, “It’s important that we’re not involved in day-to-day politics. But when the time is right and there’s an ask for support from His Majesty’s Government, the Prince is happy to play his role.” Another source told Vanity Fair, “[William] is adamant that he wants nothing to do with his brother.” So, for William, having a relationship with the President is a part of his job description as heir, while Harry simply isn't.
According to The Daily Beast, a close friend of William revealed his strong reservations. “Ultimately, William is a loyal soldier. He respects his father’s position and his right to make his own choices, and he won’t stand in the way if it happens,” the friend explained. “But he thinks a Harry meeting is a terrible, terrible idea.” William has reportedly not spoken to his brother in over 2 years, while Charles met Harry after a period of 19 months.