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This historic statement from Buckingham Palace removing Andrew Mountbatten Windsor of his royal status is seen as an "recognition" that events happened to the late Virginia Giuffre, relatives have stated.

Through its statement on Thursday, the palace said that Andrew Mountbatten Windsor – as he is now known – will also leave his mansion in Windsor, Royal Lodge, since his links to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein persist in generating controversy.

The statement concluded with: “The King and Queen wish to make clear that their considerations and utmost sympathies are and will continue to be with the affected individuals and survivors of any and all forms of abuse.”

Relatives Reaction: Recognition and Justice

Asked whether this implied that King Charles believes Virginia rather than Andrew, her brother Sky Roberts said: “Absolutely, I think that his words convey very clearly in that announcement when he says he’s with survivors out there.

“This is an acknowledgment that something occurred, something has happened. We are witnessing a change,” he added.

Giuffre’s sister-in-law, Amanda Roberts, commented: “To put that acknowledgment out for victims is significant. It's unprecedented that from other parties, and recognizing that there are survivors in this case is an acknowledgment that wrongdoing did occur.

“This represents the initial step for that justice for those impacted. Primarily the acknowledgment that something went on here. There was genuine suffering that happened to these adolescent females.”

Through a book published after her death, Giuffre – who passed away earlier this year – reiterated claims that, in her youth, she had sex with the prince on multiple instances. The Duke has always denied any wrongdoing. He resolved a legal dispute with Giuffre for a reported £12m with no admission of responsibility.

She described the announcement by the royal family as a “victory” and “vindication for our sister”.

“We are so exceptionally proud of her, but then the sorrow strikes because one hopes she was here to share this occasion alongside her – a moment that she has been waiting for, for a considerable period,” she continued.

Support Organizations React: Powerful Statement for Victims

Gender equality campaigners and support organizations also applauded the decision by the monarchy, with some saying it conveyed an vital message to those affected of assault.

A representative, head of Refuge, said it was “highly impactful to see victims recognised so directly in a announcement from the palace”, noting that it delivered a message that “survivors matter, that their ordeals are believed, and that they merit to be at the heart of national discussions about mistreatment”.

Another advocate, the chief executive at the Fawcett Society, said “this is a positive recognition that the true sufferers here are not discomfited officials or fallen royals, but the women and girls who were abused by entitled, misogynistic men.”

However, she continued: “Stripping a title, or relocating can never be viewed as true accountability or sufficient punishment. In fact, one brave woman, Virginia Giuffre, has lost her life. It was a terrible tragedy, and a indication of the profound impact abuse has on female victims.”

Remembering Virginia Giuffre: A "Resolute Fighter"

Describing Giuffre’s personality and pursuit of truth, Sky said she was a “strong warrior” who could additionally be cheeky and humorous.

“Here we have an ordinary girl from an ordinary family that did something extraordinary and I think that is something the world ought to be proud of.

“She was a tenacious fighter who refused to back down and spoke out courageously and now we are finally getting that acknowledgment that she truly was a world hero.”

Royal officials offered no response.