Caroline of Monaco smiles in the foreground while Albert of Monaco, wearing a suit, watches her in the background, with a neutral face emoji between them.

Albert of Monaco, in shock: Princess Caroline's children have taken the final step

Internal tensions and recent challenges shake the stability of one of the most well-known royal families

This year's Red Cross Gala in Monaco has left Albert of Monaco in a state of surprise. Princess Carolina's children have made a decision that could reflect a deep rupture in the royal family.

The Red Cross Gala in Monaco is one of the most prominent social events in the Principality, bringing together the international elite every year to raise funds for charitable purposes. This gala combines glamour and a strict royal protocol. However, this edition has marked a turning point for Monaco's royal family.

Close-up of Prince Albert II of Monaco with a half-smiling face.
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Emotional distance and personal decisions

Carolina of Monaco's children have taken very different stances regarding the Royal House. Carlota Casiraghi has been the most open in expressing her desire for independence from palace constraints. In statements to international media, she has defended a freer lifestyle, far from her mother's authoritarian influence.

Andrea and Pierre Casiraghi have chosen to build family lives away from maternal control, showing emotional exhaustion caused by social expectations.

This emotional distance adds to a complicated family situation, where relationships seem to have deteriorated to an almost irreversible point. Carolina's children's decision marks a turning point in the recent history of the Grimaldi house.

Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene of Monaco, both smiling in an outdoor setting.
Albert II of Monaco was surrounded by unexpected absences at the Red Cross Gala | Europa Press

The Red Cross Gala and the void that impacted Monaco

The 76th edition of the Red Cross Gala, held at the Salle des Étoiles at Sporting Monte-Carlo, brought together the international elite. However, the notable absence of Princess Carolina and her four children was impossible to ignore.

While Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene presided over the event, the absence of Andrea, Carlota, Pierre, and Alexandra was a visible blow to the Monegasque monarchy. This gesture has been interpreted as a symbol of distance and disagreement with the official line of the royal family.

In an environment where attendance at social events is an unavoidable duty, the collective absence represents a break with protocol and a reflection of internal tensions. The media and Monegasque society are closely watching this unprecedented estrangement.

Close-up of Prince Albert II with a serious expression.
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Financial scandals and repercussions for the Monegasque crown

The tense atmosphere is worsening due to recent accusations of financial opacity involving the royal family. Claude Palmero, Prince Albert's former accountant, has reported alleged irregularities in the management of public and private funds.

These allegations have led the European Union to include Monaco on a blacklist over suspicions of money laundering. This situation puts the Principality's international reputation at risk. The financial crisis adds another layer of difficulty to an already fragmented family.

Meanwhile, Princess Charlene has been the focus of criticism for her expensive projects and luxurious lifestyle. Many believe this clashes with the image of austerity traditionally expected of royalty. This contrast further fuels rumors of division within the royal core.