Great Britain Troubled relationship: King Charles speaks in the US Congress
Despite strained relations, the British royal couple received a warm welcome in Washington - King Charles III is now expected to give a speech to Congress on day two.
28.04.2026, 04:34
SDA
In addition to further ceremonies, a bilateral meeting between Charles and US President Donald Trump is also scheduled. The state visit is primarily about the extent to which the king can smooth the waters in the recently frayed US-British relations.
Charles is only the second monarch after his mother Queen Elizabeth II to address Congress. It can be assumed that he will primarily address the upcoming 250th anniversary of American independence and focus on US-British relations in recent decades. However, there is also the question of the extent to which the King will refer to the recent relationship problems.
Trump is a big fan of the King - but not of Starmer
On Monday, Charles and Queen Camilla were welcomed at the White House in glorious sunshine. Trump and Charles exchanged pleasantries and posed for a photo with Melania Trump and Camilla. A harmonious picture before heading inside for tea.
The US president, who is a big fan of the British royals, had recently repeatedly fired back at the British government - especially Prime Minister Keir Starmer - for what he saw as a lack of support in the Iran war. At the seat of government in Downing Street, however, it is hoped that the King will be able to steer the relationship between the allies in a positive direction again.
For Charles, Trump is also a difficult partner because of his openly expressed desire to make Canada the "51st federal state". The monarch is also King of Canada and therefore the country's official head of state.
Oval Office and state banquet
In addition to his speech, the King can also expect a military ceremony and a meeting with Trump in the Oval Office today. An evening banquet is also planned. Following the military ceremony, Trump is also due to give a speech in the White House garden.
The royal couple will travel on to New York later in the week. There, the royals plan to meet rescue workers and relatives of victims of the September 11, 2001 attacks, among others. The last stop on the trip to the USA is Virginia, where Charles and Camilla want to meet with representatives of the Native Americans.
