Photo: Alamy
President Donald Trump met with King Charles III at the White House on Monday, opening a closely watched state visit marked by diplomatic strain and heightened security following a recent assassination attempt.
Charles and Queen Camilla were welcomed on the South Portico, where they greeted Trump and first lady Melania Trump before beginning a series of official events.
The four-day visit, the first by a British monarch to the United States in nearly two decades, is tied to celebrations ahead of America’s 250th anniversary. It includes a state dinner, meetings with U.S. officials, and an address to a joint session of Congress.
Despite the ceremonial tone, the visit comes at a time of growing tension between Washington and London, particularly over U.S. military actions involving Iran. U.S. officials have expressed frustration with the United Kingdom’s stance, while British leaders have voiced concerns about the conflict.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said the visit is intended to “honor the longstanding and special relationship” between the two countries.
In remarks prepared for his congressional address, Charles is expected to highlight the historical ties between the nations, describing their relationship as one of “reconciliation and renewal.”
The visit is also unfolding under increased security after a shooting at the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner over the weekend. A suspect accused of attempting to assassinate Trump was arraigned in federal court Monday.
Officials said the incident prompted additional precautions around the royal visit, which was already tightly scheduled with limited public exposure.
During their first day, President Trump and the first lady hosted the royal couple for tea and a tour of the White House grounds. The king and queen later attended a reception at the British ambassador’s residence with political leaders and other guests.
On Tuesday, Charles is scheduled to meet with the president in the Oval Office and attend a state dinner before addressing Congress, becoming the first British monarch to do so since Queen Elizabeth II in 1991.
The visit will continue with travel to New York, including a stop at the 9/11 memorial, before concluding later in the week.
