Princess Beatrice and Eugenie ‘May Have Been Used’ By Andrew

The sisters have long lived with the fallout from their father’s controversies, but the latest developments have intensified the strain.

The recent release of Jeffrey Epstein-related documents, which mentioned Andrew and their mother, Sarah Ferguson, reportedly left the sisters embarrassed and shaken.

Now, following Andrew’s arrest on Thursday, sources claim the sisters are dealing with a deeper thought that they “may have been used” by their parents.

Sources close to Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie say they are revisiting past events and arriving at difficult conclusions.

“They’re also putting pieces of the puzzle together in real time and realizing they may have been used,” the insider told PEOPLE Magazine. “That has to feel like a complete betrayal. They’re heartbroken,” the individual added.

Despite the complex emotional conflict, the source noted their bond with their parents has not simply disappeared. “Love for a parent isn’t a light switch,” they explained. “It’s an incredibly painful and introspective moment for them.”

Amid these revelations, the princesses are reportedly distancing themselves from the turmoil, especially for the sake of their kids.

“They’re trying to stay away from it,” the source added. “They have young children, and this is their grandfather — their focus is on protecting their own children from this.”

The princesses’ reaction followed hours after their father was taken into custody on suspicion of misconduct in public office on his 66th birthday. 

As The Blast reported, the arrest stems from information contained in the Epstein files, specifically relating to Andrew’s activities during his time as a U.K. trade envoy. 

Thames Valley Police confirmed that an investigation has been launched, though officials did not name Andrew directly in their initial announcement.

Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright stated, “Following a thorough assessment, we have now opened an investigation into this allegation of misconduct in public office.”

He further stressed the importance of transparency, assuring the public that updates would be provided as the investigation progresses.

In the wake of Andrew’s arrest, Ferguson has remained silent, with her whereabouts unknown, according to The Blast.

Despite their 1996 divorce, the estranged couple had maintained a notably close relationship over the years, frequently appearing together and presenting a united front.

However, Ferguson has largely stepped away from public life as Andrew’s troubles intensified. Before Andrew’s detention, those close to Ferguson revealed that she intended to carve out her own space and “forge an independent life” following their eviction from the royal lodge. 

The ex-Duchess of York may have remained silent due to mounting anxiety and pressure as an insider claimed she feels as though “everyone is out to get her.”

The individual added that Ferguson “sounds in a bad way,” and has revealed she is dealing with her mental health. 

Although her location remains unclear, reports suggest that the 66-year-old may be planning to leave Britain amid mounting tension and financial strain.

While she is said to prefer remaining near Windsor to make it easier for her daughters to visit, the United Arab Emirates has emerged as a close option for her.

“I think she’d like to stay in the Windsor area to make it relatively easy for Beatrice and Eugenie to visit with her grandchildren,” a source shared, according to The Blast.

However, the insider added that moving to the UAE could be considered if she believes it offers stronger financial opportunities.

Earlier this month, the Department of Justice released more documents related to Epstein, including messages he exchanged with Ferguson, where she repeatedly referenced Princess Eugenie and Beatrice.

Per The Blast, Ferguson called the convicted sexual offender the “brother I never had” in one message, while in another, she arranged for lunch with him and her children.

After the documents came to light, the princesses were said to be deeply taken aback by their parents’ close ties with Epstein. Another source revealed they understood why their father’s royal exile was the right step.