Donald Trump has once again expressed admiration for King Charles and affirmed that his strained relationship with PM Keir Starmer will not affect the upcoming US state visit by the monarch. The US president has criticized the Prime Minister for decisions related to North Sea drilling and immigration policies, hinting at potential changes in the UK-US trade deal.
King Charles and Queen Camilla are set to embark on a significant four-day visit to the US at the end of the month, coinciding with escalating tensions in the transatlantic relationship due to Trump’s criticisms of the UK and its NATO allies. The historic visit, scheduled between April 27 and 30, will commemorate the 250th anniversary of American independence and kick off celebrations nationwide. Trump, in an interview with Sky News following the release of the King’s US itinerary by Buckingham Palace, praised Charles as a “great gentleman” and downplayed any impact his disagreements with Sir Keir might have on the royal visit.
While acknowledging his fondness for the Prime Minister, Trump pointed out what he described as Starmer’s “tragic mistakes” in handling North Sea oil and immigration issues. When asked about the special relationship with the UK, Trump expressed disappointment that Britain and other NATO allies did not support the US in certain international matters. Moreover, he hinted at the possibility of revisiting the terms of the trade deal with the UK.
The Palace recently disclosed additional details about the King’s itinerary during the US visit. The royal couple will participate in various events, including a traditional American Block Party in Virginia, where locals will have the opportunity to meet and celebrate with the royals in honor of America’s 250th birthday. The visit will commence with an informal welcome by President Trump and the First Lady in Washington, followed by a series of formal engagements, including a State Dinner at the White House and an address by the King to Congress.
Additionally, the King and Queen will visit New York to pay respects at the 9/11 memorial and explore Harlem. After concluding their US visit, Queen Camilla will return to the UK while King Charles will proceed to Bermuda from May 1-2, marking his first official visit to a British Overseas Territory. During his time in Bermuda, the King will engage in various activities, including viewing a museum exhibition on Bermuda’s history and meeting with representatives from the UK Space Agency to discuss space sustainability efforts.