King Charles III to urge Donald Trump to ‘come together’ with Britain in Congress address

Washington: King Charles III will receive a full ceremonial welcome at the White House on Tuesday, hosted by US President Donald Trump, as part of a state visit aimed at easing tensions between the United Kingdom and the United States over the Iran conflict.

On the second day of the four-day visit, the King is expected to deliver a rare address to Congress, calling for “reconciliation and renewal” in the transatlantic relationship, which has recently come under strain.

The day’s programme will feature traditional pageantry, including a formal arrival ceremony with a 21-gun salute and an inspection of troops. King Charles and Queen Camilla will also meet President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump in the Oval Office for private talks, before attending a state dinner at the White House in the evening.

The visit began with a more informal welcome on Monday, when the Trumps hosted the royal couple for tea at the White House and showed them the grounds. President Trump also displayed a painting depicting the assassination attempt he survived in 2024, shortly after a recent shooting at a gala he attended.

Later, the King and Queen attended a garden party at the British embassy, where traditional refreshments including cucumber sandwiches and scones were served.

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Tuesday’s address to Congress will mark a significant moment, with King Charles becoming the first British monarch to address US lawmakers since his mother, Elizabeth II, in 1991.

In the speech, expected to last around 20 minutes, the King will stress the importance of defending shared democratic values, describing them as “crucial for liberty and equality” in a time of global challenges. He is also expected to highlight the enduring strength of the US–UK alliance, noting that both nations have repeatedly found ways to overcome differences.

The visit coincides with the 250th anniversary of American independence, adding symbolic weight to efforts to reinforce ties between the two allies.

However, the visit takes place at a sensitive time. Relations have been strained after President Trump criticised Britain’s refusal to support US military action in Iran, and he has repeatedly attacked Prime Minister Keir Starmer over a range of policies.

Despite this, Sir Keir has defended the state visit, although a recent poll suggested that nearly half of Britons supported cancelling it.

The King is also expected to deliver brief remarks at the state dinner. On Wednesday, the royal couple will travel to New York to visit the 9/11 memorial, before concluding their visit with a trip to Bermuda on Thursday.