US President Donald Trump said he feels “badly” for the British royal family as the dramatic removal of titles from his friend Prince Andrew was finalised.

Spearheaded by King Charles III, the unprecedented move strips Andrew of his “Prince” title, the Duke of York style and other honours, ending his formal royal status.

In a statement, Trump described what was unfolding as “a tragic situation” and expressed his sympathy for the family amid intense public scrutiny over Andrew’s associations and past legal settlements.

The former U.K. royal will now be known as Andrew Mountbatten Windsor.

According to official communications from Buckingham Palace, the decision reflects the monarchy’s commitment to victims of abuse, with the King’s statement affirming that “their Majesties wish to make clear that their thoughts and utmost sympathies have been, and will remain with, the victims and survivors of any and all forms of abuse.”

Concurrently, the U.K. government has moved to strip Andrew of his last honorary military rank of vice-admiral, the Defence Secretary confirming the decision is being carried out in line with the King’s direction.

The events follow renewed attention on Andrew’s ties to convicted sex-offender Jeffrey Epstein, including the publication of a posthumous memoir by his accuser and newly surfaced emails suggesting continued contact after Epstein’s conviction.

Andrew continues to deny all such allegations.

The stripping of titles, military honours and a royal residence mark the most sweeping royal sanction in recent memory and underline the monarchy’s stronger stance on reputational risk.

President Trump’s remark meanwhile underscores the international attention such developments have garnered and the diplomatic sensitivities surrounding royal transitions.