How do I explain my kids why a friend stopped talking to them because of issues among grownups

[Alex833]

Recently, my sister and her husband has problems in their marriage. For some reason, his family got really involved to the point that they made him choose sides. Long story short, everyone from his family stopped talking to everyone in our family, including the children. This is all manageable for us the grown-ups, but how do I explain to my poor innocent girls (ages 8 and 4) why their beloved friend (my sister's husband's niece, age 10) suddenly stopped talking to them? They really love her and will be pretty hurt, so I want to find words to explain that this is not their fault but I can't seem to be able to find a suitable explanation in my head.

[TeenDivided]

Uncle Bob has fallen out with Auntie Sue. And I know it is stupid, but Uncle Bob told Cousin Beth not to see you any more because I'm Auntie Sue's sister.

We don't think it is very grown up of Uncle Bob but we can't do anything about it, and it definitely isn't your fault. Hopefully things will settle back to normal soon.