Washington: King Charles III is expected to subtly address recent tensions between the United Kingdom and the United States during a rare speech to both houses of the US Congress, emphasizing that despite challenges, the two nations have consistently found ways to maintain unity.
The remarks come amid strained relations following comments and actions by Donald Trump, who has threatened to withdraw from a UK-US trade agreement, criticised the Royal Navy, and directed remarks at UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
Much of the tension stems from the UK’s decision not to participate in a US and Israeli military campaign against Iran, a conflict that continues to impact the global economy.
This evening, Their Majesties spent time with brilliant people contributing to the UK-US relationship.
Hosted at the British Ambassador’s Residence, the first royal event to ever take place here was another Garden Party, held during King George VI and Queen Elizabeth I’s State… pic.twitter.com/TtxdLTj4HH
— The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) April 28, 2026
The King, accompanied by Queen Camilla, is currently in Washington for a four-day state visit marking the 250th anniversary of American independence.
During his address, King Charles is expected to acknowledge that while the UK and US have not always agreed over the past two and a half centuries, their shared democratic, legal, and social foundations, rooted in historic principles such as Magna Carta, have enabled enduring cooperation.
Trade and technology are also expected to feature prominently in the speech, particularly as tensions rise over potential tariffs threatened by Trump if the UK does not revise its digital services tax on US technology firms. The King is likely to underscore the importance of economic collaboration in sustaining the long-term partnership between the two nations.
The visit has also been overshadowed by a recent assassination attempt on Trump during a Washington media event. In his speech, Charles is expected to briefly acknowledge the incident and extend the goodwill and solidarity of the British people to Americans during this milestone anniversary.
This address will mark only the second time a British monarch has spoken before a joint session of Congress, following Queen Elizabeth II in 1991. The King is also expected to highlight the deep-rooted defence, intelligence, and security ties between the two countries, describing them as longstanding and vital.
Amid global economic pressures linked to the ongoing Iran conflict, sometimes referred to by critics as ‘Trumpflation,’ the monarch is anticipated to stress that reaffirming shared values can help both nations promote stability and prosperity worldwide.
In addition, King Charles is expected to highlight environmental priorities, praising America’s natural landscapes and emphasizing the importance of protecting what he describes as ‘nature’s own economy.’ Drawing on his faith, he will likely speak about shared values of compassion, peace, mutual understanding, and respect for people of all beliefs.
The King is expected to conclude by describing the UK-US relationship as one shaped by reconciliation and renewal over 250 years, evolving into one of the most significant alliances in history, one he hopes will continue to uphold shared values for generations to come. The speech, prepared with input from the UK government, is expected to last around 20 minutes.
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