Britain’s King Charles III called on the United States to remain committed to its Western allies during a speech to Congress on Tuesday, warning that tensions over Iran and Ukraine could weaken transatlantic relations at a critical time.
In his rare address, the monarch avoided directly addressing disagreements between President Donald Trump and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Instead, he emphasized that the long-standing partnership between the two nations has endured past disputes and remains strong.
The speech was well received by lawmakers, even as Charles touched on sensitive topics such as climate change, limits on executive power, NATO, and continued support for Ukraine—issues that have sparked debate, particularly among Republicans.
He stressed that global challenges cannot be tackled by any single country alone, urging closer cooperation among traditional allies.
Speaking during events marking 250 years since American independence, Charles highlighted the need for determination in achieving a “just and lasting peace” in Ukraine, which has been resisting Russia’s full-scale invasion since 2022.
Earlier, President Trump welcomed Charles and Queen Camilla to the White House for a four-day state visit, praising Britain as America’s closest ally.
During a ceremonial reception on the South Lawn, complete with a 21-gun salute, Trump struck a more positive tone than in previous criticism of Starmer.
“In the centuries since our independence, Americans have had no closer friends than the British,” Trump said, reaffirming the “special relationship” and shared military ties.
The event included military honors, music from both national anthems, and a flypast by U.S. jets, as the leaders and First Lady Melania Trump looked on.
The visit comes at a sensitive time, as Trump has recently criticized Britain’s policies, including its stance on Iran. Despite this, he spoke warmly about Charles, describing him as “a fantastic person.”
The King’s address—marking the first by a British monarch to Congress since Queen Elizabeth II in 1991—was the centerpiece of the visit.
Charles pointed to shared democratic traditions, calling Congress a “citadel of democracy,” and noted the influence of Magna Carta on U.S. law, particularly the principle that executive authority is subject to checks and balances.
He also underscored the deep defense, intelligence, and economic ties between the two nations, describing them as closely interconnected.
Security during the visit was heightened following an alleged assassination attempt against Trump at a Washington event over the weekend.
Condemning such violence, Charles stated that these acts would never succeed.
The royal couple is set to attend a state dinner later, concluding a visit that blends ceremonial tradition with delicate diplomatic engagement.
