Kate Middleton's letter sparks return speculation

The Princess of Wales may have hinted at her royal return in a recent letter to the Irish Guards, according to a royal commentator. 

Princess Kate, Colonel of the Irish Guards, missed the Colonel's Review last Saturday, a parade rehearsal for this week's Trooping the Colour ceremony on June 15. 

Currently taking time off to undergo cancer treatment, the future Queen expressed her sentiments in a heartfelt letter.

Kate spoke of how "proud" she was of the Irish Guards and apologised for her absence, stating: "I appreciate everyone Trooping the Colour this year has been practising for months and dedicating many hours to ensuring their uniforms and drill are immaculate."

She continued, "Being your Colonel remains an honour and I am very sorry that I'm unable to take the salute at this year's Colonel's Review. Please pass my apologies to the whole regiment, however, I do hope that I am able to represent you all once again very soon."

According to Newsweek's chief royal correspondent, Jack Royston, her two-word remark "very soon" could indicate her return to royal duties is near. He told Sky News, "Now we shouldn't read too much into it, but it is an optimistic use of language."

The Princess of Wales's last public appearance was in December 2023, when she joined the Royal Family on Christmas Day in Sandringham.