Prince William and Kate Middleton‘s public support for Ukraine is a surprising move. The British royal family is expected to keep silent on such matters, particularly Queen Elizabeth, who, “as Head of State … has to remain strictly neutral with respect to political matters,” per the palace website. This explains why the queen hasn’t commented on the Russian invasion — that, and her current recovery from COVID-19. Other members of the family, such as Prince Charles, Prince Andrew, Prince Edward, and Princess Anne, have similarly stayed mum.
Prince Harry, on the other hand, has no such restrictions. Though he is still in the line of succession, as a non-working royal he is free to speak his mind on any topic (much to the dismay of some). He and his wife, Meghan Markle, posted a statement on their Archewell website: “Prince Harry and Meghan, The Duke and Duchess of Sussex and all of us at Archewell stand with the people of Ukraine against this breach of international and humanitarian law and encourage the global community and its leaders to do the same.”
William and Kate’s followers are applauding their break from royal protocol. One wrote, “I thought the British Royal Family was not supposed to get involved in politics. Well, I am really happy to see this message. Ukraine needs all the support they can get. The support of the future King and Queen is very significant and welcome.”
