A source close to the Duchess of Sussex has defended Meghan Markle's decision to appear alongside Prince Harry in Brussels this week, saying that keeping her work commitments is helping her cope.
The couple travelled to the Belgian capital for a one-day visit on Tuesday, marking Meghan's first public appearance since her father's arrest and charges last week. The Duchess, described as clearly emotional, attended the opening of the Lost Screen Memorial at the European Parliament alongside Harry.
Criticism Over Attendance
Some questioned her ability to attend the event on Tuesday, given that she had pulled out of delivering the speech alongside Harry. Royal fans took to X to criticise her decision, with one writing: "Why is Meghan Markle in Brussels if she is so distraught? Why didn’t she stay home with her children..."
Another added: "If you can’t get it together enough to make a public appearance, then stay home."
Source Response
Speaking about carrying on with work commitments amid the circumstances surrounding her father, a source told PEOPLE: "It's helping her."
The source added: "Keeping her work commitments doesn’t mean she’s any less upset. She’s trying to focus on her family, her kids and the work that matters to her."
"She believes she can do something good through that work," the source continued. "Having things in her life that she cares about and can put her energy into is helping her."
This follows comments from royal expert Emily Nash, who said Meghan is "really struggling" due to the allegations against her father.
