President Trump described the arrest of former Prince Andrew over ties to Jeffrey Epstein as “a shame” and “so bad for the royal family” during a recent appearance aboard Air Force One. Addressing reporters, the president emphasized his own exoneration in newly released documents that allegedly reveal Epstein conspired against his presidency.

When questioned by Peter Doocy about whether associates of Epstein would eventually face legal consequences, Trump stated: “Well, you know, I’m the expert in a way, because I’ve been totally exonerated. It’s very nice. I can actually speak about it very nicely.” He reiterated his characterization of Andrew’s arrest as both “shameful” and “very sad,” adding it was “so bad for the royal family.”

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor—now stripped of his royal titles—is under investigation for misconduct in public office following his arrest by Thames Valley Police. Authorities suspect he shared confidential or sensitive government information with Epstein during his tenure as the United Kingdom’s special representative for international trade through 2011. The prince was detained at his Norfolk residence, questioned, and released without immediate charges as investigations continue. He has denied any wrongdoing.

The incident coincides with King Charles’ upcoming U.S. visit in April, amid heightened scrutiny of Andrew’s legal situation. A previously circulated clip resurfaced showing Trump publicly addressing Prince Andrew’s Epstein connections years earlier—a move he described as occurring before political figures in Washington “cared about Epstein at all.”