Trump says Harry and Meghan must pay for security

On 29/03/2020, then–U.S. President Donald Trump publicly stated that the United States government would not cover security costs for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle following their relocation to Los Angeles from Canada. The statement was made via a post on X (formerly Twitter), where Trump referenced his respect for Queen Elizabeth II and the United Kingdom while clarifying the U.S. position on the matter. In his message, Trump wrote that although the couple had moved to the United States, the government would not fund their protection, adding that they would need to cover those costs themselves. The remarks came shortly after the Duke and Duchess of Sussex had transitioned to North America as part of their plan to step back from senior royal duties and pursue financial independence. A spokesperson for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle responded shortly after the statement, clarifying that the couple had no intention of requesting security support from the U.S. government. The spokesperson indicated that privately funded security arrangements had already been put in place as part of their relocation and transition away from publicly funded royal support. The exchange drew attention amid broader discussions about the couple’s move, their security arrangements, and the financial implications of their departure from official royal roles. It also coincided with the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, a period during which government resources and public spending were under increased scrutiny. Why This Moment Matters The statement and response clarified that the couple’s security would be privately funded, reinforcing their stated intention to become financially independent after stepping back from publicly supported royal duties.