Prince Harry was slammed by a royal commentator for a “one-man publicity stunt” following his remarks about the conflict between Ukraine and Russia. Harry delivered a lengthy, impassioned speech at the Kyiv Security Forum on Thursday, saying he was “not here as a politician” but as “a soldier who understands service” and a “humanitarian”.
In a rare input on global matters, the King’s youngest son turned his attention to the US – although he did not mention Mr Trump by name – urging the “American leadership” to “honour its international treaty obligations” in its “enduring role in global security”. Harry said: “The United States has a singular role in this story. Not only because of its power, but because when Ukraine gave up nuclear weapons, America was part of the assurance that Ukraine’s sovereignty and borders would be respected.
“This is a moment for American leadership, a moment for America, to show that it can honour its international treaty obligations – not out of charity but out of its enduring role in global security and strategic stability.”
But his speech sparked reaction from the US President, Donald Trump, who said that the Duke “is not speaking for the UK”.
Now, a royal commentator has weighed in on Harry’s remarks and said the move, when the royal is not a working member of the Firm, is a “grift that insults the Crown’s discipline and the public’s intelligence”.
Lee Cohen, a US-based columnist and royal and foreign policy commentator, told the Daily Express: “Parading as a voice of authority on war and peace, without expertise or mandate, isn’t leadership—it’s a one-man publicity stunt that drowns out real diplomacy.
“You don’t get to ditch royal obligations, keep the titles for profit, and then pose as a global statesman when the mood strikes.
“It’s a grift that insults the Crown’s discipline and the public’s intelligence. Time to end the charade: relinquish the titles or shut up on politics.”
Mr Cohen added: “The halfway house of privilege without responsibility isn’t just untenable.”
Responding to the speech Harry made during a surprise visit to Ukraine, Mr Trump told reporters: “I know one thing, Prince Harry is not speaking for the UK, that’s for sure. I think I am speaking for the UK more than Prince Harry.” He added: “But I appreciate his advice very much.”
He went on to ask: “How’s he doing? How’s his wife? Please give her my regards.”