King Charles III and Queen Camilla’s four-day US visit will continue as planned following a shooting incident involving Donald Trump, Buckingham Palace confirmed Sunday.
Trump Assures King Charles III’s Safety
Following a shooting incident in Washington D.C., Donald Trump stated that King Charles III is a “great guy” and he looks forward to their meeting.
Trump further emphasized that “King Charles III will be very safe” during his visit, also describing the White House grounds as “really safe.”
A Diplomatic Test for King Charles III
King Charles and Queen Camilla are visiting the US to commemorate the 250th anniversary of American independence, aiming to strengthen relations between the two countries.
However, British media highlight that the visit occurs during a strained period in US-UK relations, with CNN describing the meeting with Trump as the King’s “most difficult diplomatic test yet.”
Trump’s Grievances with the UK
Trump has criticized British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, accusing the UK of not fully supporting the US-Israeli war with Iran, and disapproving of the UK’s immigration policies and decision to halt North Sea oil and gas extraction.
Trump Sees Potential for Improved Relations
Speaking to the BBC, Trump expressed hope that the King’s visit could improve relations, describing Charles as a “fantastic” and “courageous” man.
King Charles III’s Congressional Address
The royal couple will receive a ceremonial welcome at the White House and hold meetings with Trump on both Monday and Tuesday, including a tea ceremony and a tour of the Rose Garden.
A 21-gun salute will honor the King during the visit, culminating in an address to the US Congress on Tuesday.
Expert Analysis of the King’s Message
Professor Philip Murphy predicts that King Charles will attempt to appeal directly to the American public, potentially bypassing Trump, and emphasize “shared values such as freedom, democracy, and a long history of friendship.”
Murphy suggests the speech will be “subtle, delicately worded, respectful,” and could help improve relations.
Remembrance of 9/11 Victims
The royal couple will also meet with families of the victims of the September 11th attacks.
Priorities of the Royal Visit
British Ambassador to the US, Sir Christian Turner, stated the visit’s priorities are investment, military cooperation, and fostering people-to-people connections, including tourism and education.
He described the overall goal as “renewing and revitalizing the exceptional friendship” between the two countries.
New York and Virginia Stops
Following the Congressional address, the royal couple will visit New York, where they will meet with 9/11 families, though New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani will not hold a private meeting with the King.
They will also visit Virginia for local events commemorating the 250th anniversary of American independence, and will stop in Bermuda on their return journey.