Donald Trump Expresses Sadness Over Ex-Prince Andrew's Arrest, Calls It Detrimental to Royal Family

Former US President Donald Trump has voiced his deep regret over the arrest of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, also known as Prince Andrew, who was taken into custody on suspicion of misconduct in public office.

Andrew was arrested on his 66th birthday following a police operation at his Sandringham estate on Thursday.

Addressing the press aboard Air Force One, Trump commented, "I think it's a shame. I think it's very sad. I think it's so bad for the Royal Family. It’s very, very sad. To me, it’s a very sad thing."

He also described King Charles III as an exceptional individual and noted that he would be visiting the United States soon.

Trump asserted that he had been "totally exonerated" after the release of documents associated with Jeffrey Epstein, alluding to the increased calls in the US for similar actions following the developments in Andrew's arrest.

The former royal is facing intensified examination regarding his ties to Epstein after millions of documents were disclosed by the Justice Department last month.

One of the documents included a picture of Andrew on the floor with a young woman.

After nearly a full day in custody, Andrew was released on Thursday evening, making him the first high-ranking royal in contemporary history to be arrested.

Upcoming visits by King Charles and his successor, Prince William, are planned for the US in late April, at a time when the Royal Family is confronting significant scrutiny since the passing of Princess Diana.

Shortly after Andrew's release, British police confirmed that a man in his sixties had been freed but remained under investigation.

Thames Valley Police indicated that they had concluded searches at Andrew's residence, Wood Farm, in Norfolk.

The allegations against the former Duke of York concern claims that he shared confidential information with Epstein while serving as a British trade envoy.

Reports indicate that King Charles was not informed in advance about Andrew's arrest, although it was disclosed that Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood’s team was alerted by a senior police officer earlier that morning.

In a rare statement, the monarch expressed his profound concern over the situation, acknowledging the severity of the allegations against his younger brother. He emphasized that "the law must take its course" while underscoring the need for a thorough investigation by the appropriate authorities.

Charles stated, "I have learned with the deepest concern the news about Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and suspicion of misconduct in public office. What now follows is the full, fair and proper process by which this issue is investigated in the appropriate manner... I must stress: the law must take its course. As this process continues, it would not be right for me to comment further on this matter. Meanwhile, my family and I will continue in our duty and service to you all."