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KING Charles III and Queen Camilla have arrived in the United States for a four-day state visit, hosted by US President Donald Trump, in a trip aimed at reaffirming transatlantic ties even as political differences persist over the Iran conflict.
The visit, the most significant of Charles’s reign to date, coincides with the 250th anniversary of the United States’ declaration of independence from Britain and marks the first such journey by a British monarch in two decades.
Following their arrival at Joint Base Andrews, the royal couple travelled to the White House, where they were received by Trump and First Lady Melania Trump. The leaders briefly posed for photographs before attending a private tea.
Later, Charles and Camilla attended a garden reception at the British ambassador’s residence, joining a distinguished gathering that included senior American officials such as Ted Cruz and Scott Bessent, alongside diplomats and figures from Washington’s social and media circles.
Reuters reported on Tuesday that the visit’s programme includes a formal address to the US Congress, a state dinner at the White House and a subsequent visit to New York City.
Events in Washington are unfolding against a backdrop of heightened security concerns following the recent shooting at the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner.
In his address, the King is expected to reflect on the enduring relationship between the two nations, acknowledging periods of disagreement while emphasising unity.
Time and again, our two countries have always found ways to come together.”
He is also set to describe the bilateral partnership as “one of the greatest alliances in human history,” underscoring the importance of shared democratic values in promoting global stability and prosperity.
Despite the ceremonial warmth, the visit comes at a delicate moment in relations between Washington and London. While Trump has frequently praised Charles as a “great man,” his administration has clashed with the government of Keir Starmer over the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran.
The British government is seeking to use the visit to reinforce the so-called “special relationship,” which some observers view as being under its greatest strain since the Suez Crisis.
After Washington, the royal couple will travel to New York, where they are expected to commemorate victims of the September 11 attacks ahead of the 25th anniversary, before concluding their trip in Virginia with engagements focused on environmental initiatives, a longstanding priority of the King.
Diplomatic tensions have been further complicated by reports that the United States has considered reassessing its stance on Britain’s claim to the Falkland Islands, reflecting Washington’s frustration over London’s position on Iran.
The visit is also taking place amid sensitivities surrounding the scandal involving Prince Andrew, whose past associations with the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein continue to cast a shadow over the royal family. - April 28, 2026
