Donald Trump has spoken publicly for the first time about Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's decision to move back to the UK, saying he is "happy about it" while making clear he remains critical of the couple. Trump said he had a "very good relationship" with the late Queen and with King Charles, and accused Harry and Meghan of having treated the royal family with "great disrespect", adding that he would not have "taken them back" had he been in the family's position. His comments matter because they highlight the contrast between his warm rapport with the monarch and his continued disapproval of the Sussexes, adding a political dimension to a story about the couple's return.

Harry and Meghan told King Charles last month that they plan to relocate to Britain with their children, Archie, seven, and Lilibet, five, who are due to start school there this autumn, after flying into the UK on 26 August for what is described as an "extended stay". The family is reportedly considering a home in the Cotswolds and will retain their Montecito residence and Portuguese holiday property. The couple's move follows reported unease with the current US political climate ahead of November's midterm elections, while Trump's friendly ties with the King were underscored in April when he hosted Charles and Queen Camilla at a White House state dinner marking America's 250th anniversary.