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This momentous statement from Buckingham Palace stripping Prince Andrew of his title is regarded as an "acknowledgment" that something happened to the deceased Virginia Giuffre, relatives have stated.

In its statement on Thursday, the royal establishment indicated that the Duke of York – as he is now known – will also leave his mansion in Windsor, Royal Lodge, as his links to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein continue to cause controversy.

Their announcement concluded with: “Their majesties wish to make clear that their thoughts and deepest sympathies have been and will remain with the affected individuals and those who endured of every forms of abuse.”

Family Reaction: Acknowledgment and Accountability

Questioned whether the statement suggested that King Charles believes Virginia rather than Andrew, Giuffre's sibling Sky Roberts said: “Absolutely, in my view that he’s speaking very clearly in that statement when he states he’s with those affected out there.

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

A family member, Amanda Roberts, said: “To put that acknowledgment out for victims is significant. It's unprecedented that from other parties, and to acknowledge that there are survivors in this situation is an affirmation that abuse took place.

“It is the very first step for that resolution for those impacted. It is first the acknowledgment that events unfolded here. This involved genuine suffering that happened to these young girls.”

Through a book published after her death, Giuffre – who died recently – reiterated claims that, in her youth, she had intimate relations with the prince on multiple instances. The Duke has always denied any misconduct. He resolved a legal dispute with Giuffre for a estimated £12m with no admission of responsibility.

She described the announcement by the royal family as a “victory” and “justification on behalf of our sister”.

“We’re just extremely proud of her, but then the sorrow hits because you wish she was here to experience this moment alongside her – a moment that she has been anticipating, for a very long time,” she continued.

Support Organizations React: Significant Statement for Survivors

Women’s rights campaigners and support organizations likewise welcomed the move by the royal family, with several saying it conveyed an vital signal to those affected of abuse.

A representative, chief executive of Refuge, stated it was “incredibly powerful to see survivors recognised so explicitly in a announcement from the palace”, adding that it delivered a message that “survivors matter, that their ordeals are believed, and that they deserve to be at the heart of national discussions about abuse”.

Penny East, the chief executive at the Fawcett Society, commented “it is a positive recognition that the real victims here are not discomfited officials or fallen royals, but the females who were sexually assaulted by entitled, misogynistic men.”

However, she continued: “Removing a honor, or moving house can never be considered true accountability or sufficient punishment. Indeed, one brave woman, Virginia Giuffre, has lost her life. This was a devastating event, and a reminder of the profound impact sexual assault has on women and girls.”

Remembering Virginia Giuffre: A "Strong Warrior"

Portraying Giuffre’s personality and pursuit of truth, Sky expressed she was a “strong warrior” who could also be cheeky and humorous.

“This is an ordinary girl from an ordinary family that did something remarkable and in my opinion that is something the global community should be proud of.

“Giuffre was this strong warrior who stood her ground and refused to stay silent and we are at last receiving that recognition that she truly was a global icon.”

Royal officials offered no response.