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Charles Urges ‘Reconciliation and Renewal’ in Historic US Visit with Trump
King Charles addresses Congress for the first time since 1991, stressing liberty and equality during a tense US visit.
King Charles III will use a high-profile visit to the United States to call for unity between Britain and America, as tensions linger over the Iran war.
On Tuesday, the British monarch will be formally welcomed by Donald Trump at the White House and will deliver a rare speech to Congress — the first by a British sovereign since Queen Elizabeth II in 1991.
The visit enters its second day with a strong focus on diplomacy and symbolism, as Charles is expected to advocate “reconciliation and renewal” to reinforce the so-called special relationship between the two nations.
The day’s events include a ceremonial reception with a 21-gun salute and military inspection, followed by private talks in the Oval Office between the Trumps and the royal couple. A state dinner is scheduled for later in the evening.
Monday’s opening events were more informal, featuring tea and cakes at the White House and a tour of the presidential beehives.
In a notable moment, Trump also showcased a painting illustrating the 2024 assassination attempt he survived, just days after a shooting incident at a gala he attended.
King Charles and Queen Camilla later joined guests at a British embassy garden party, where traditional refreshments were served.
The centerpiece of the visit will be Charles’s address to Congress, delivered at a sensitive time as Britain seeks to repair relations strained by its refusal to support Trump’s Iran campaign.
During the 20-minute speech, Charles is expected to emphasize the importance of shared democratic principles, describing them as “crucial for liberty and equality.”
Highlighting the 250th anniversary of US independence, he is also expected to stress the enduring strength of the bilateral alliance.
“Time and again, our two countries have always found ways to come together,” he will say.
The monarch will frame the past two and a half centuries as a journey of “reconciliation and renewal,” producing what he calls “one of the greatest alliances in human history.”
Charles is also expected to deliver remarks at the White House state dinner, likely held in the State Dining Room, amid ongoing plans by Trump to expand the venue with a controversial new ballroom.
Despite the ceremonial warmth, political tensions remain. Trump has criticized Prime Minister Keir Starmer over his stance on the Iran war and domestic policies.
Although Starmer has opposed the conflict, he has defended the visit, even as public opinion remains divided, with nearly half of Britons supporting its cancellation, according to an April YouGov poll.
The visit will conclude with a trip to New York, including a stop at the 9/11 memorial, before the royal delegation departs for Bermuda on Thursday.
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