Prince Andrew was seen near Windsor Castle just hours before Donald Trump’s highly anticipated state visit, raising eyebrows as scrutiny intensifies over both figures’ connections to convicted pedophile Jeffrey Epstein.
Andrew Spotted at Windsor Estate
According to the Daily Mail, the Duke of York was spotted driving around the Windsor Estate on Monday, September 15, appearing “pensive” as he stared out of his car window. The sighting comes amid growing public attention and controversy surrounding his ties to Epstein.
Trump’s State Visit and Royal Preparations
King Charles III and Queen Camilla are set to host former U.S. President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trumpfor a four-day state visit from September 16-19. However, the visit has already been clouded by criticism, as both Andrew and Trump’s historical connections to Epstein attract intense media and public scrutiny.
Incriminating Emails and Public Backlash
Reports indicate that the U.S. Congress is reviewing emails between Prince Andrew and Jeffrey Epstein, described as “incriminating” and potentially damaging.
An insider told the Daily Mail:
“If you think what’s happened to Peter Mandelson is bad then you have no idea what will happen when the Andrew emails are released. They are embarrassing and incriminating and he could be destroyed.”
The scrutiny has fueled public outcry ahead of Trump’s visit. In a dramatic protest, a “tennis-court-sized” banner depicting a notorious photo of Trump and Epstein was placed on the King’s Windsor doorstep.
The Duke of York’s Reaction
Prince Andrew is reportedly “dismayed” by the “unwelcome distraction” caused by the ongoing Epstein controversy, particularly as it coincides with the high-profile state visit and recent political upheaval, including Lord Mandelson’s sacking.
What This Means for the State Visit
The presence of Prince Andrew near Windsor Castle and the heightened media attention highlight the challenges facing the royal household ahead of Trump’s visit. With public scrutiny and political controversy looming, the state visit is already shaping up to be contentious.