Prince William chose Donald Trump over Prince Harry this week: Here's why

Prince William has made headlines this week for warmly welcoming US President Donald Trump during his historic second state visit to the UK, while continuing to keep his distance from his estranged brother, Prince Harry.

The Prince of Wales, 43, and Kate Middleton were the first royals to greet the American leader and his wife, Melania, when their helicopter landed at Windsor. 

But just a week earlier, Prince Harry had returned to the UK for four days of charity work and a private meeting with King Charles, with no sign of a reunion between the brothers. 

According to royal insiders, the contrasting approaches are no accident.

A source told The Telegraph: “It’s important that we’re not involved in day-to-day politics. But when the time is right and there’s an ask for support from His Majesty’s Government, the prince is happy to play his role.”

As heir to the throne, William’s role includes strengthening the UK’s bond with key allies like the United States, and he is said to take that responsibility seriously. 

By contrast, William sees no such obligation to reconnect with Harry. A source told Vanity Fair: “[William] is adamant that he wants nothing to do with his brother.”

Writer Erin Vanderhoof summed up the difference, noting: “Having a relationship with the president of the US is a part of his job description; having one with his own brother is not.”

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