King Charles III and Queen Camilla will visit the United States from April 27 to 30 for a state visit, confirmed by President Donald Trump on Truth Social. The trip, the first by a British monarch in nearly 20 years, includes a banquet dinner at the White House and an address to Congress. The visit coincides with the 250th anniversary of American independence and comes amid growing tensions between the US and Europe over the Iran war.
Calls for Boycott and Diplomatic Strains
The visit has faced widespread calls for a boycott due to escalating tensions between the US and its European allies. Trump has criticized the UK and other European nations for refusing to assist in the Iran conflict. France, Italy, and Spain have restricted US military aircraft from using their airspace or bases, further straining relations.
Epstein Victims Seek Meeting with King
Democratic Congressman Ro Khanna has urged King Charles to meet privately with survivors of Jeffrey Epstein’s abuse during the visit. Khanna, author of the Epstein Files Transparency Act, argues that the King should hear directly from victims about institutional failures. Buckingham Palace has expressed sympathy for abuse victims but has not confirmed whether such a meeting will occur.
Prince Andrew’s Scrutiny
The King’s brother, Prince Andrew, has faced renewed scrutiny over his ties to Epstein. Stripped of his royal titles in 2025, Andrew has denied wrongdoing but has not responded to congressional requests for testimony. The US House Oversight Committee has sought his cooperation in investigations.
Trump’s Public Support for the Visit
Trump has publicly endorsed the visit, calling it a ‘momentous occasion’ and expressing admiration for the King. However, his recent public criticism of European allies—including telling the UK to ‘get its own oil’—has raised questions about the state of the US-UK ‘special relationship’.