Prince Harry made subtle criticisms of President Trump’s administration during a speech at the Upfront Summit in Los Angeles on Thursday.
The Duke of Sussex insisted he is not on the “left or right” side of politics whilst making remarks that appeared aimed at the current US leadership.
During his appearance, Harry referenced the “detrimental effect” on billions of people when “basic morals and empathy are abandoned in favour of power and control.”
His comments come at a sensitive time, just weeks after his father, King Charles, extended an “unprecedented” second state visit invitation to President Trump.
Prince Harry takes veiled swipe at Trump just hours after King Charles’s surprise invitation
Getty
Harry elaborated on his concerns about leadership across sectors, saying: “Now this would be a great time to talk about how a sickness in leadership across sectors—from politics to tech—can have a detrimental effect on millions, if not billions, of people.”
He continued: “When service to others is sacrificed for personal gain. When basic morals and empathy are abandoned in favour of power and control. But I’m not gonna get into all that now!”
The Duke revealed he had been investing for five years, focusing on businesses that serve communities and drive change.
Despite claiming political neutrality, his remarks appeared to reference criticisms of the Trump administration.
Keir Starmer showed Donald Trump a letter from King Charles inviting him to the UK
PA
Harry’s comments come as King Charles offered President Trump an “unprecedented” second state visit to the UK.
Traditionally, second-term presidents do not receive such honours, with Trump having already had a state visit in 2019.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer presented the invitation during a meeting in the Oval Office.
“This is really special. This has never happened before. This is unprecedented,” Starmer said.
Trump accepted the invitation, stating: “On behalf of our wonderful first lady Melania and myself, the answer is yes, and we look forward to being there and honouring the King and honouring your country.”
The US President is known to be a fan of King Charles and particularly admired the late Queen Elizabeth II.
During a meeting with Prince William in December 2024, Trump recalled “warm and fond memories” of the late Queen.
Kensington Palace described the meeting as “warm” and “friendly”, lasting around 40 minutes.
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In contrast, Trump has hinted at his dislike of Harry, previously suggesting he might deport the Duke due to his admitted drug use.
Earlier this year, Trump appeared to soften his stance, saying: “I’ll leave him alone.”
While Harry has never publicly commented on Trump, the Duchess of Sussex has called the President “misogynist” and “divisive”.
