BRITAINS Monarch King Charles III will proceed with his state visit to the United States as scheduled, despite a recent shooting during a high-profile Washington event, after assurances from American authorities that security risks remain contained.
Reuters, on Monday, cited Buckingham Palace confirming the decision following consultations with US officials, stating that the four-day visit by the King and Queen Camilla would go ahead as planned.
The visit had briefly come under scrutiny after a gunman opened fire near the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner on Saturday, an event attended by President Donald Trump, prompting Secret Service agents to swiftly remove him from the venue.
“I think it's great; he'll be very safe,” Trump said in an interview on CBS News' 60 Minutes. “The White House grounds are really safe.”
He added that there was no indication from authorities of any further threats to himself or other senior officials.
Acting US Attorney General Todd Blanche said investigators believe the shooting likely targeted the president and members of his administration, but expressed confidence in the security arrangements for the royal visit.
The trip, which includes a private meeting with Trump and an address to Congress marking 250 years of American independence, is seen as an effort to reinforce transatlantic ties at a time of policy differences, including over the Iran conflict.
“Following discussions on both sides of the Atlantic through the day, and acting on advice of government, we can confirm the state visit by their majesties will proceed as planned,” a Buckingham Palace spokesperson said.
“The king and queen are most grateful to all those who have worked at pace to ensure this remains the case and are looking forward to the visit getting underway tomorrow.”
A palace source indicated that minor operational adjustments may be made to certain engagements, but the overall programme remains intact.
The King has been kept fully briefed on developments and was said to be relieved that Trump, Melania Trump and other attendees were unharmed. The royal couple have also privately conveyed their sympathies to the US president and his wife.
Darren Jones, chief secretary to the British prime minister, said the government would continue to work closely with US security agencies in the lead-up to the visit.
“In respect of His Majesty's visit to the United States next week ... our security services obviously remain in close cooperation in advance of that,” he told Sky News.
The decision to proceed underscores confidence in US security measures, even as authorities review protocols following the shooting incident. - April 27, 2026
