The Duchess of Sussex, Meghan, is set to travel to the United Kingdom this week with her two children, Archie and Lilibet, marking their first visit since the late Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee in 2022. However, Meghan will not participate in any public engagements during the trip, including an Invictus Games event in Birmingham that was originally scheduled for the Duke of Sussex, Prince Harry.

Security concerns played a significant role in the decision for Meghan and the children to delay their arrival. When Harry traveled to the UK earlier this week, police declined to provide the family with protection, prompting Meghan and the children, who had been staying in Europe, to postpone their journey. The exact timing and arrangements for their travel have reportedly been the subject of ongoing discussions.

The visit has reignited speculation about a possible private reunion between Harry and his father, King Charles III. Palace officials have not confirmed whether such a meeting will take place but have declined to rule it out. Harry is believed to be eager to reunite his children with their grandfather, as well as visit the grave of his mother, Diana, at Althorp, Northamptonshire—an experience he has expressed a desire to share with his children.

Earlier in the week, King Charles reportedly extended an invitation to Harry and his family to stay at Buckingham Palace, which would have included security provisions. However, sources indicate that the Duke did not respond within the stipulated deadline of July 3. The Palace subsequently withdrew the offer, citing insufficient notice and a preference to maintain a degree of separation amid Harry’s ongoing legal dispute with the Daily Mail publisher over a £50 million privacy claim.

The Duke’s plans for his UK visit were marked by uncertainty and delays, including a request to stay at Buckingham Palace that was ultimately refused. Palace representatives have described the Royal Household as cautious and fatigued by the shifting nature of arrangements surrounding Harry and Meghan’s return.

Prince Harry has been in Britain since earlier this month, last appearing in January when he gave evidence in his High Court privacy case. Meghan’s last extended presence in the UK was for the Queen’s funeral in September 2022, though she has made brief stops during flight layovers since then.

At present, Harry is residing in private accommodation, and Meghan’s forthcoming move to the UK with their children highlights ongoing complexities regarding the couple’s relationship with the Royal Family and the logistics of their visits.