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The historic declaration from the royal household stripping Prince Andrew of his royal status is seen as an "recognition" that something happened to the late Virginia Giuffre, relatives have stated.

In its announcement on Thursday, the palace indicated that the Duke of York – under his current designation – will also leave his mansion in Windsor, Royal Lodge, since his links to disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein continue to cause public debate.

The statement concluded with: “Their majesties aim to emphasize that their considerations and deepest sympathies have been and will remain with the victims and those who endured of every forms of abuse.”

Relatives Response: Acknowledgment and Justice

Questioned whether this implied that the monarch trusts Virginia over Andrew, Giuffre's sibling Sky Roberts remarked: “Absolutely, in my view that his words convey very clearly in that statement when he says he’s with those affected out there.

“This is an admission that events took place, something has happened. We are witnessing a shift,” he added.

Giuffre’s sister-in-law, Amanda Roberts, commented: “Issuing such recognition out for victims is huge. We haven’t seen that from other parties, and to acknowledge that there are affected individuals in this case is an affirmation that abuse took place.

“It is the initial step for that justice for survivors. Primarily the admission that events unfolded here. There was real trauma that affected these young girls.”

Through a book published after her death, Giuffre – who passed away recently – reiterated claims that, as a teenager, she had intimate relations with the prince on multiple instances. He has consistently refuted any misconduct. He settled a civil case with Giuffre for a reported £12m without accepting of liability.

She described the statement by the palace as a “triumph” and “vindication for our sister”.

“We’re just so exceptionally admiring of her, but then the sorrow strikes because you wish she was here to share this moment together with her – a moment that she has been anticipating, for a very long time,” she added.

Support Organizations React: Powerful Message for Victims

Gender equality advocates and support organizations likewise welcomed the decision by the royal family, with several saying it conveyed an vital message to those affected of abuse.

Gemma Sherrington, chief executive of Refuge, stated it was “incredibly powerful to see survivors acknowledged so explicitly in a statement from the palace”, adding that it delivered a signal that “victims are important, that their ordeals are believed, and that they merit to be at the center of national discussions about abuse”.

Another advocate, the director at the Fawcett Society, commented “this is a welcome acknowledgment that the true sufferers here are not embarrassed politicians or disgraced princes, but the females who were abused by privileged, prejudiced men.”

Nonetheless, she continued: “Stripping a honor, or moving house can never be considered genuine responsibility or adequate consequence. In fact, a courageous individual, Virginia Giuffre, has lost her life. This was a devastating event, and a indication of the profound impact abuse has on female victims.”

Remembering Virginia Giuffre: A "Resolute Fighter"

Portraying Giuffre’s character and fight for justice, Sky said she was a “strong warrior” who could additionally be playful and goofy.

“This is an ordinary girl from an typical background that achieved something remarkable and in my opinion this is something the global community should be admiring of.

“She was a tenacious fighter who stood her ground and refused to stay silent and now we are at last receiving that recognition that she truly was a world hero.”

Royal officials declined to comment.