“My mother had a crush on ‘cute’ Charles”: Trump’s remark at White House draws attention

Washington DC: King Charles III was formally received at the White House on the second day of his state visit to the United States, marked by a 21-gun salute and the traditional “reviewing the troops” ceremony, considered one of the highest diplomatic honours for a visiting head of state.

During the White House ceremony marking King Charles III’s state visit, Donald Trump made a light-hearted personal remark saying that his late mother “had a crush” on a young Prince Charles and often found him “cute” while watching royal events on television. 

During his address US President Trump turns around to look at King Charles and tells him that his mother had a crush on him: "I also remember her saying very clearly, 'Charles, look, young Charles, he's so cute.'"

"My mother had a crush on Charles. Can you believe it? I wonder what she's thinking right now."

Visit set against global tensions

The visit comes amid reported strains between Washington and London over issues including tariffs and the ongoing conflict in Iran. Despite these challenges, both governments have described the trip as an opportunity to reinforce long-standing diplomatic relations.

Officials from both sides have emphasised that the visit aims to maintain stability in US–UK ties and encourage continued cooperation on global issues.

President Donald Trump hosted King Charles at the White House, where the two leaders are expected to hold a private meeting in the Oval Office.

The discussions are likely to focus on strengthening bilateral cooperation and addressing wider geopolitical concerns affecting both countries.

A White House state banquet is also scheduled as part of the official programme, continuing the tradition of formal diplomatic dinners during state visits.

Congress address and historic significance

Later in the visit, King Charles is expected to address a joint session of the US Congress, becoming only the second British monarch to do so after Queen Elizabeth II in 1991.

The address is expected to highlight themes of shared history, reconciliation and continued partnership between the United States and the United Kingdom.

The White House ceremony featured military honours and strict diplomatic protocol, underscoring the importance of the visit.

Security has been significantly increased across Washington due to heightened concerns following recent incidents in the city, with multiple layers of protection deployed for the visiting delegation.

Beyond Washington, the royal visit includes scheduled stops in New York and Virginia. These engagements include cultural and memorial visits such as the September 11 memorial, along with public-facing community events.

Trump’s remarks and informal moment

During the ceremony, President Trump delivered prepared remarks highlighting the long historical relationship between the United States and the United Kingdom, referencing shared cultural and political roots.

He also made informal personal comments referencing his family history and past admiration for the British royal family, adding a lighter tone to the otherwise formal diplomatic programme.

The state visit is being closely watched internationally as it unfolds amid wider geopolitical tensions involving trade disputes, security concerns and the ongoing conflict in Iran, adding further significance to the diplomatic engagement.