King Charles expressed “profound concern” over ex-prince Andrew’s Epstein links

Buckingham Palace has issued a tatement regarding former Prince Andrew following reports that Thames Valley Police are investigating a complaint alleging he shared confidential information with the late financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

The statement, released on February 9, marks the first time King Charles III has directly addressed his brother’s conduct since Prince Andrew, formally known as Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, and his former wife Sarah Ferguson were named multiple times in recently released US Department of Justice files related to Epstein, Caliber.Az reports per foreign media. 

“The King has made clear, in words and through unprecedented actions, his profound concern at allegations which continue to come to light in respect of Mr. Mountbatten-Windsor’s conduct,” the palace said. “While the specific claims in question are for Mr. Mountbatten-Windsor to address, if we are approached by Thames Valley Police, we stand ready to support them as you would expect."

The palace concluded by reiterating the royal family’s support for victims of abuse, stating: “As was previously stated, Their Majesties’ thoughts and sympathies have been, and remain with, the victims of any and all forms of abuse.”

The latest statement follows an earlier announcement issued on October 30, when Buckingham Palace confirmed that King Charles, 77, had stripped his 65-year-old brother of his remaining royal titles and honours. At the time, the palace said that the King and Queen Camilla “wish to make clear that their thoughts and utmost sympathies have been, and will remain with, the victims and survivors of any and all forms of abuse.”

Prince Andrew has faced sustained criticism over his past association with Epstein, who died in a New York jail in 2019 while awaiting trial on federal conspiracy and sex trafficking charges.

By Sabina Mammadli