Six years after the seismic “Megxit” split that saw Prince Harry and Meghan Markle step back as senior working royals, the Duke of Sussex has firmly rejected the label of “non-working royal.” In a candid interview conducted during his surprise visit to Ukraine, Harry declared: “I will always be part of the Royal Family… I’m here working and doing the very thing I was born to do.”
The remarks, made to ITV News Royal Editor Chris Ship while the prince was visiting the HALO Trust’s mine-clearing operations, come amid ongoing global fascination with the Sussexes’ independent path and renewed scrutiny of their relationship with the institution they left behind.
Prince Harry reflects on Diana’s legacy as he walks in Ukraine minefield | ITV News
Prince Harry speaking exclusively to ITV News during his visit to Ukraine.
Harry’s unannounced trip to Kyiv — his third since Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022 — focused on humanitarian work with The HALO Trust, the landmine clearance charity long associated with his late mother, Princess Diana. He observed demining teams near Bucha, tested advanced equipment, and paid respects at the grave of an unidentified Ukrainian soldier.
Continuing a Family Legacy
The visit underscores Harry’s deep personal connection to humanitarian causes. Princess Diana famously walked through minefields in Angola in 1997 to highlight the devastating impact of landmines. Harry, now 41, has followed in her footsteps, describing HALO’s work in Ukraine as “incredible” and urging the world not to lose focus on the ongoing conflict.
Prince Harry continuing Princess Diana’s legacy with HALO Trust in Ukraine.
During a speech at the Kyiv Security Forum, Harry called on world leaders to demonstrate “proper leadership,” urged Russian President Vladimir Putin to “stop this war,” and highlighted alleged Russian atrocities. He also pressed the United States to honor its international commitments regarding Ukraine’s security assurances after the country relinquished its nuclear weapons in the 1990s.
Rejecting the “Non-Working Royal” Label
When asked by ITV News whether he felt “emboldened” to speak out now that he is “not a working royal,” Harry pushed back decisively. “No. I will always be part of the Royal Family,” he stated. He emphasized his enjoyment in supporting people and doing meaningful work, adding that living in a world where people in his position feel “gagged” would be concerning.
ITV News Exclusive: Prince Harry urges world not to lose sight of Ukraine as he makes surprise visit | ITV News
Harry told the reporter: “We need to feel empowered to speak truth to power… What we are seeing is a humanitarian catastrophe in multiple parts of the world.”
The timing of the visit is notable. It follows closely on the heels of a joint “pseudo-royal” tour of Australia with Meghan Markle and comes just days before King Charles III and Queen Camilla’s scheduled four-day state visit to the United States.
Trump’s Sharp Response
Harry’s comments on American leadership were interpreted by some as a veiled critique aimed at U.S. President Donald Trump. The President responded forcefully, stating that Harry “is not speaking for the UK” and adding sarcastically, “I think I am speaking for the UK more than Prince Harry.” He also quipped about Meghan: “How’s he doing? How’s his wife? Please give her my regards.”
Harry later downplayed any potential impact on his father’s upcoming U.S. visit, saying simply, “No. Not at all.”
Six Years After Megxit
The Sandringham Summit of January 2020 marked a turning point. Queen Elizabeth II ruled that Harry and Meghan could not operate as “half in, half out” royals. The couple relocated to California, pursued independent media projects, established the Archewell Foundation, and focused on philanthropy, mental health advocacy, and entrepreneurial ventures.
Despite the distance, Harry maintains he remains fundamentally connected to his royal identity. His continued involvement with causes like the Invictus Games and now HALO Trust demonstrates a commitment to service outside traditional palace structures.
A Divided Royal Landscape
Harry’s assertions reignite debates about the role of non-working royals, the use of titles, and the boundaries of public commentary by members of the royal family. While supporters praise his humanitarian focus and willingness to address global issues, critics argue that high-profile interventions risk complicating the monarchy’s diplomatic neutrality, especially ahead of King Charles’s engagements.
The Duke stopped briefly in the UK en route to Ukraine but only for transit. He has not undertaken official royal duties since stepping back in 2020, yet he continues to use his title and platform on the global stage.
As a father to Archie and Lilibet, Harry also spoke about global anxieties: “As a dad… everybody’s scared, everybody’s worried for what is potentially around the corner.” He expressed hope that heightened international awareness could bring conflicts to an end sooner rather than later.
Looking Forward
Harry’s Ukraine visit and forthright comments highlight the complexity of his post-Megxit identity. He seeks to honor his royal heritage and birthright of service while forging an independent path alongside Meghan. Whether this dual existence strengthens or strains family relations remains a subject of intense public interest.
King Charles III has long emphasized reconciliation and the importance of family, even as the monarchy streamlines under a “slimmed-down” model centered on the Waleses. The upcoming U.S. state visit — and any potential private conversations — may offer further insight into the current dynamics.
For now, Prince Harry stands firm: he is a royal who continues to work, speak out, and serve — on his own terms.
Prince Harry in Ukraine, blending personal mission with royal reflection.