Meghan Markle's refusal to return to UK has 'nothing to do with security or childcare'

Meghan Markle will not join Harry in the UK next week (Image: GETTY)

Meghan Markle's refusal to return to the UK with her husband Prince Harry has nothing to do with security or childcare, one expert has claimed.

The Duchess of Sussex, who was tipped to return to the UK this month, will not join Harry at a special ceremony to mark the 10th anniversary of the Invictus Games in London next week.

The ceremony will take place at St Paul's Cathedral on May 8, with Harry expected to give a speech to mark the milestone.

Meghan's decision appears to have nothing to do with security fears nor childcare - and more that she "doesn't want to return to the UK", an expert has said.

Speaking to OK!, former BBC royal correspondent Jennie Bond said that Meghan's recent decision appears to be "the clearest indication yet" that she doesn't plan on returning to the UK again.

Stay up-to-date with the latest Royal news Join us on WhatsApp

Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. Read our Privacy Policy

The expert added: "I’m afraid this does seem to be the clearest indication yet that Meghan really doesn’t want to return to the UK.

"I suppose it’s not surprising because there would be a huge amount of doubt about what kind of reception she would get. But it is sad."

After returning to the UK for the Invictus Games ceremony, Meghan will then fly to Nigeria to join Harry there for further commitments for the Games.

Speaking of Meghan's decision to join Harry in Nigeria, she added: "The fact that she is going to Nigeria completely negates the argument that it is the issue of security that is keeping her away.

Meghan attended the 2023 Invictus Games in Germany with Harry (Image: GETTY)

"They will obviously be given official security in Nigeria, but they would almost certainly be given security here on a similarly official engagement. And few people would argue that Nigeria is a safer place than the UK."

Ms Bond continued: "So the only conclusion we can draw is that Meghan has absolutely no desire to set foot in the UK again.

"It must be sad for Harry who has made it clear that he loves his family here, and wants his children to know and understand their heritage.

Pointed out by Ms Bond, Meghan has been present for many events surrounding Invictus since 2017. Earlier this year, Meghan and Harry appeared in Canada to mark the one-year countdown for the 2025 Games.

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry stepped down from royal duties in 2020 (Image: GETTY)

"Meghan has been at his side for so much of the Invictus [Games] story and it must hold a special place in their hearts because it was at the games that they made their first public appearance together.

"If she can travel to the Netherlands for the games, why can’t she attend such an important milestone as the 10th anniversary service at St Paul's?"

Meghan has not made an appearance in the UK since September 2022. The couple's two children - Prince Archie, who turns five on Monday, and Princess Lilibet, two - have also not returned to the UK since June 2022.