Prince Andrew is now likely to ease his self-imposed travel restrictions following the FBI’s announcement that it is closing its investigation into his connections with the late Jeffrey Epstein. The Duke of York, who has largely remained within the confines of Royal Lodge in Windsor for the past six years, had been anxious about possibly facing arrest if he traveled abroad.
According to a source, the end of the FBI probe provides Andrew with a sense of security to resume his travels without the constant fear of legal repercussions. While he has only ventured outside the UK once since the allegations surfaced—with a trip to Bahrain in 2022—his friends suggest that the conclusion of the investigation may allow him to explore his options more freely.
During his tenure as a working royal and UK trade envoy, Andrew was known for his extensive travel, leading to the moniker “Air Miles Andy.” However, concerns over potential civil action and personal safety have kept him in a state of caution. Despite the difficulties, the Duke has indicated a willingness to assist law enforcement and cooperate with investigations, although he faced scrutiny for allegedly not doing so in the past.
Notably, he previously settled a civil lawsuit with Virginia Giuffre, who accused him of abuse when she was a minor, for £12 million, without admitting any wrongdoing. The recent tragic news of Giuffre’s passing earlier this year has added further complexity to Andrew’s situation.
With this new development, there is cautious optimism that Prince Andrew can move forward, engaging with his contacts and potentially finding new avenues to contribute positively, as he seeks to redefine his role outside the shadow of past controversies.