Eric Trump, the son of former U.S. President Donald Trump, publicly criticized Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in an interview conducted on August 4, 2024. He described the Duke and Duchess of Sussex as “spoiled apples,” implying they are not welcome in the United States.
Trump advised that the U.K. would be more than willing to accept the couple back, and the U.S. would not hesitate to send them. He echoed the views of several critics of the couple, implying that their actions have tarnished their reputation.
During the interview, Eric Trump voiced his family’s deep respect for the British monarchy, terming it a revered institution that many Americans value and believe should be protected. This perspective is consistent with the Trump family’s broader stance, which perceives itself as a defender of conventional values and institutions.
His comments came amid ongoing inquiries into Prince Harry’s U.S. visa status, following Harry’s admission of past drug use, including cocaine, cannabis, and magic mushrooms, in his memoir “Spare.” Such revelations have triggered legal implications from conservative entities such as the Heritage Foundation, who question whether Harry honestly disclosed his drug use in his visa applications.
Earlier in March, Donald Trump discussed the matter with broadcaster Nigel Farage. Trump argued that if Prince Harry had lied on his visa applications, he should not be given preferential treatment. He suggested that if evidence of drug use was found and Harry had been dishonest, appropriate measures would have to be taken, potentially including deportation. This has raised concerns about Prince Harry’s future in California, where he currently lives with Meghan and their two children.
The Trump family’s dispute with the Sussexes is not new. Donald Trump has been a persistent critic of Meghan Markle, accusing her of showing disrespect towards the royal family and the late Queen Elizabeth II. He also criticized the couple’s decision to relinquish their royal responsibilities and relocate to the United States in 2020.
Eric Trump’s comments underscore the perceived disconnect between the Sussexes and the rest of the British Royal Family. He suggested that Harry and Meghan are isolated from both their British and American roots, likening them to being on an island unto themselves.
Despite this criticism, the Sussexes’ relationship with other members of the royal family seems more congenial. Eric Trump mentioned his family’s connection to the late Princess Diana, stating that his mother, Ivana Trump, had a good relationship with her. He implied that this relationship affords the Trump family a unique understanding of the inner workings of the royal institution.
Regardless of the ongoing disputes, Eric Trump underscored the significance of the U.K.-U.S. relationship. He asserted that there would be no better ally for the U.K. than Donald Trump, portraying his father as a proponent of Western values and a protector of traditional institutions.