By Sean Coughlan, Royal correspondent, Washington DC
The King and Queen begin a four-day state visit to the United States on Monday intended to refresh a long-standing partnership, the UK’s ambassador Sir Christian Turner says. They arrive at a time of heightened political friction between Washington and London and increased security concerns after a weekend shooting at an event attended by President Trump.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer spoke with President Trump on Sunday and, following UK–US security consultations, officials agreed the visit should proceed with a handful of adjustments to reduce risk. The King and Queen also made a private contact with the Trumps to express sympathy after the attack.
The programme opens in Washington DC, where the royal couple will be welcomed at the White House by President Trump and the First Lady, Melania Trump. Over several days of ceremonial events, public engagements and bilateral meetings, British and American flags will mark a series of interactions designed to project solidarity.
Organisers describe the itinerary as a charm offensive, including a planned visit to the 9/11 Memorial in New York and other symbolic gestures aimed at demonstrating shared values. For President Trump the visit offers a high-profile opportunity to be seen alongside royalty on the global stage; he told the BBC he thought the trip could help mend relations with the UK.
Sir Christian says the focus will be on common history, joint sacrifice and mutual values, and on practical benefits of the partnership in areas that make both countries safer and more prosperous. While diplomats increasingly avoid the phrase special relationship, they acknowledge the visit comes at a testing moment, with public disagreements such as the president’s criticism of Sir Keir over the UK’s Iran policy.
Events in Washington, New York and Virginia are intended to show ties go beyond the current administrations. After the White House reception and tea with the Trumps, the King and Queen will host a garden party for guests with UK–US connections, highlighting people-to-people links.
Sir Christian set out three strategic priorities for the state visit: attracting investment, deepening military cooperation and strengthening connections between citizens through tourism, education and cultural exchanges. The trip has also attracted domestic criticism; Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey urged cancellation and described the US president as unreliable.
The diplomatic centerpiece will be the King’s address to the US Congress on Tuesday, where he will need to balance reflecting the UK government’s positions while maintaining a constructive tone toward the president, who is due to speak at the state dinner. In media interviews the president has expressed warm personal regard for King Charles, a tone London hopes will help smooth political relations.