William and Kate Plan Major 2026 US Visit as Royal Tensions Flare

Prince William and Kate Middleton are preparing for a high-profile 2026 tour of the United States to mark the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence — a move said to have angered Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.

According to insiders, the Palace wants the Prince and Princess of Wales to take a leading role in the celebrations, especially as King Charles’s health may prevent him from travelling. US officials are reportedly eager to host the couple, with President Trump said to have personally requested their attendance.

The trip is viewed within royal circles as an opportunity for William and Kate to «reclaim the spotlight» on American soil, amid ongoing tensions with Harry and Meghan since their departure from royal duties in 2020. Sources suggest the Sussexes’ recent media moves — including leaked set photos from Meghan’s new film and Harry’s sudden trip to Canada — were attempts to counter William’s rising visibility.

While the visit is unconfirmed, it may coincide with major US events including the Semiquincentennial and the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The Waleses are also navigating sensitive timing, with renewed scrutiny of Donald Trump’s past links to Jeffrey Epstein and continuing fallout from historic allegations involving Prince Andrew. Kate is reportedly in contact with First Lady Melania Trump as planning for the tour advances.

Despite Harry having expressed hopes for reconciliation earlier this year, Palace aides are reportedly determined to prevent the Sussexes from overshadowing the trip, seeing the tour as a «line in the sand» for the future direction of the monarchy.