Donald Trump has expressed admiration for King Charles once more and assured 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 drilling in the North Sea and immigration, hinting at potential changes to the UK-US trade deal.
The royal visit of King Charles and Queen Camilla to the US from April 27 to 30 coincides with a challenging period in transatlantic relations following Trump’s criticisms of the UK and other Nato allies. Trump praised Charles as a “great gentleman” during an interview with Sky News shortly after Buckingham Palace revealed details of the King’s US itinerary.
Despite his disagreements with Keir Starmer, Trump emphasized that the royal visit will not be overshadowed by their differences. He highlighted Starmer’s perceived mistakes in oil policies and immigration decisions and expressed disappointment in the UK and other Nato allies for not supporting the US in a conflict with Iran.
Trump also mentioned providing the UK with a favorable trade deal but suggested that the terms could be subject to change. The Palace disclosed additional plans for the King’s visit, including attending a traditional American Block Party in Virginia and engaging in various diplomatic and cultural events during the trip.
Following their time in the US, Queen Camilla will return to the UK while King Charles will proceed to Bermuda from May 1-2 for his first visit as Sovereign to a British Overseas Territory. The visit will include engagements focused on Bermuda’s history, the Transatlantic Slave Trade, and discussions with the UK Space Agency regarding space sustainability efforts.