In the aftermath of an alleged third assassination attempt on President Donald Trump, security measures in the nation’s capital have been significantly heightened. The Mirror US recently visited the White House following an incident where an individual, Cole Tomas Allen, reportedly tried to breach security during a White House Correspondents’ dinner armed with a shotgun, handgun, and knives.
A stroll around the nearly 2-mile security perimeter on Monday morning revealed the seriousness with which the upcoming visit of King Charles III and Queen Camilla is being treated. National Guard members and Metropolitan Police officers were visibly more active than usual, monitoring the area around the executive complex and the White House.
The presence of Secret Service agents at various government building entrances, in police vehicles, and stationed at different driveways was notably increased. The area surrounding the White House is now encircled by a tall, unclimbable metal fence, hindering tourists’ views of the iconic building.
Tourists were observed struggling to find a clear vantage point for photographs due to the extensive fencing along 14th Street and 17th Street. Some visitors expressed frustration as popular spots like The Ellipse, typically accessible to the public, were closed off for the state visit, leading to disagreements among sightseers.
Despite the security disruptions, Buckingham Palace confirmed that the King and Queen’s visit would proceed as planned, with enhanced security measures in place. The streets have been adorned with American and British flags to commemorate the occasion. UK Ambassador to the US, Christian Turner, assured that adequate security arrangements were in place for the royal visit.
The royal couple is expected to be greeted by President Trump and First Lady Melania at the White House’s south portico, followed by a private afternoon tea in the Green Room. Additionally, King Charles III and Queen Camilla will tour the beehives on the South Lawn, coinciding with the recent expansion of the White House honey-production program.