BRITAIN’S Monarch King Charles III has called for a renewed commitment to the transatlantic alliance between Britain and the United States, stressing the importance of sustained cooperation as global security challenges intensify.
Speaking at a state dinner held at the White House and hosted by US President Donald Trump, the King emphasised the enduring strength of the bilateral relationship at a time of heightened tensions linked to conflicts involving Iran and Ukraine.
Delivering remarks alongside Trump during his four-day state visit, AFP reported on Wednesday that Charles avoided direct reference to strained political dynamics between the US President and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
However, he underscored the historic depth of Anglo-American relations, noting that both nations have long stood together through periods of crisis and triumph.
"Tonight, we are here to renew a very important alliance, which for so long has been the cornerstone of prosperity and security for the people of Britain and America," the King said.
Earlier, in an address to the US Congress—the first by a British monarch since Queen Elizabeth II in 1991—the King also highlighted shared democratic traditions and the enduring legal and constitutional links between the two countries.
He stressed the need for continued unity among Western allies.
He further called for steadfast international support for Ukraine, which has faced a full-scale Russian invasion since 2022, urging what he described as “unyielding determination” to secure “a just and lasting peace”.
The King also referenced the historical foundations of both democracies, noting that the Magna Carta has been cited in more than 160 US Supreme Court cases, drawing strong applause from members of Congress.
At the White House, President Trump praised the King’s congressional address, describing it as “a great speech” and remarking that he was “very jealous”, even as Charles touched on sensitive subjects including climate change, NATO, and limits on executive power.
Trump, who has previously criticised aspects of British policy, adopted a notably warmer tone during the visit, describing the United Kingdom as America’s closest ally.
"Ever since we achieved our independence, the American people have had no friend closer than the British people," Trump said, praising the “special relationship” and defence cooperation between the two countries.
The ceremonial state visit included a 21-gun salute, military honours on the White House South Lawn, and a joint review of US forces by the King and President. Fighter jets also conducted a flyover during the proceedings.
The diplomatic engagement took place against a sensitive geopolitical backdrop, including tensions over Iran policy and the ongoing war in Ukraine.
Security measures were heightened following reports of an alleged assassination attempt against Trump at a recent Washington event.
"Acts of violence like that will not succeed," Charles said in response to concerns over the incident.
The visit continues with further official engagements, culminating in a final state dinner, underscoring both the ceremonial pageantry and strategic importance of the UK–US relationship. - April 29, 2026
