King Charles appears to be extending an olive branch to his brother Prince Andrew amid past tensions.
The monarch has welcomed Andrew and his ex-wife Sarah Ferguson to visit Balmoral Castle in Scotland.
King Charles and Prince Andrew
By inviting Andrew to Balmoral, Charles shows his desire to smooth relations between the brothers after years of controversy surrounding Andrew.
Andrew was banished from his royal duties for his links to Jeffrey Epstein. But Charles seems willing to reconcile, at least in private.
The trip comes after Andrew retained his Royal Lodge, avoiding Charles’ proposed move to Frogmore Cottage.
Andrew drove to the 50,000-acre Balmoral estate to begin the family retreat.
Ferguson will join him after flying into Aberdeen airport. The former couple will stay at Craigowan Lodge, located just a mile from the main castle.
Their daughters Beatrice and Eugenie probably suggested the visit. The trip will allow them to spend time together, as Ferguson has recently undergone cancer treatment.
Supporting Ferguson’s recovery
Ferguson has just undergone breast cancer surgery at a London hospital.
In a statement, she expressed her immense gratitude to the medical staff. Ferguson stressed the importance of regular cancer screenings that detected her asymptomatic diagnosis.
The vacation in Scotland will contribute to his recovery, and Charles will make sure Ferguson feels welcome.
A significant gesture
According to an insider, Charles’ hosting Andrew at the Balmoral accommodation opposite the castle is not a snub but allows him to relax.
“It is delightful and the Duke and Duchess can relax totally. It’s only a mile to the big house where family dinners and get-togethers will take place,” the insider has told The Daily Express.
The King intends the trip to be a meaningful gesture of reconciliation after years of tension. The invitation shows that he and Andrew are now on better terms.
Charles seems willing to offer compassion to his brother, Andrew regardless of past problems.