King Charles is reportedly taking drastic measures to distance his younger brother, Prince Andrew, from royal privileges, signaling a decisive chapter in the ongoing feud over Andrew’s residence at the Royal Lodge in Windsor. According to sources within the palace, the monarch, said to be concerned about his own health and legacy, is determined to resolve lingering issues surrounding the disgraced Duke of York, once and for all.

The king’s focus has zeroed in on curtailing Andrew’s lavish lifestyle, starting with the withdrawal of his £1 million annual allowance and seven-figure security detail. “Charles has tried everything to get Andrew to cut back on his expenses,” one insider stated. “But Andrew remains obstinate and believes it is his royal right.”

The feud stems largely from Prince Andrew’s association with the late Jeffrey Epstein, a convicted sex offender. Andrew’s involvement led to his removal from public duties in 2019 following a disastrous interview on BBC’s Newsnight. Despite denying all accusations, Andrew settled a lawsuit with Virginia Giuffre, an alleged victim of Epstein, for a reported $16 million.

Since then, Andrew has maintained his residence at the sprawling 31-room Royal Lodge, which he shares with his ex-wife, Sarah Ferguson. The property, leased in 2004, includes several cottages, a chapel, and expansive grounds. However, King Charles reportedly wants Andrew to downsize to Frogmore Cottage, a smaller home recently vacated by Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. Despite Charles’ insistence, Andrew has refused, citing his 75-year lease as justification for staying.

“Andrew believes moving would be an admission of guilt,” a source explained. “For him, it’s about maintaining his dignity, however tarnished.”

Royal commentator Stephen Bates highlighted the dilemma facing King Charles: “Charles knows his younger brother’s association with Epstein has made him a ‘loose cannon’ and a liability for the monarchy.” Bates suggested that this year’s Christmas gathering at Sandringham would be a litmus test for their strained relationship. If Andrew is seen walking to church with the rest of the family, it may signal some level of acceptance. If excluded, it could further underscore his alienation.

Palace sources indicate that King Charles’ moves are part of a broader effort to modernize and slim down the monarchy’s expenses and public perception. “It’s not just about Andrew; it’s about preserving the reputation of the monarchy for future generations,” an insider remarked.

Royal Lodge, with its storied past dating back to the 17th century, became Andrew’s home after it was vacated by the Queen Mother. The late Queen Elizabeth reportedly supported her son’s residency and even sanctioned the extensive renovations he undertook. But with mounting public scrutiny and changing royal dynamics, Charles appears resolute.

Andrew’s entitlements have been a source of public frustration, especially given the gravity of the accusations against him and his subsequent settlement. “The public’s perception is clear—they do not want to see Andrew living lavishly on taxpayer funds,” said a palace observer.

The tension between the brothers dates back to before King Charles ascended the throne, with the late Queen reportedly having plans to move Andrew out of the Royal Lodge and into Frogmore. “Had she lived another year, he would have been out,” author Robert Hardman noted in an updated biography of Charles.