Trump says he feels 'sad' for Queen over Harry situation

US President Donald Trump has given his opinion on Meghan Markle and Prince Harry's decision to step down as senior members of the royal family.

"I think it's sad," Mr Trump said in an interview with Fox News. "[The Queen] is a great woman. She's never made a mistake... She's had like a flawless time."

"I don't want to get into the whole thing, but I just have such respect for the Queen," he continued, adding: "I don't think this should be happening to her."

Harry and Meghan's plans to step back as senior royals, become financially independent and split their time between the UK and North America are the subject of urgent meetings begun in earnest on Friday after directions from the Queen and other senior royals.

It is understood the meetings are "progressing well" with UK and Canadian governments consulted.

Speaking about the duke and duchess, the source told PA news agency: "They, like everyone, are hopeful this can all be worked out, sooner rather than later.

"It is in everyone's interest for this to be figured out, and figured out quickly, but not at the expense of the outcome."

Harry and Meghan's plans were announced in a bombshell statement on Wednesday that rocked the royal family and were said to have left the Queen and other senior royals "hurt".