King Charles III has extended an official state visit invitation to U.S. President Donald Trump, marking an unprecedented second state visit for a modern political leader, The Hill reported.
Starmer Delivers the Invitation
During a Thursday meeting in Washington, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer personally handed Trump a letter from King Charles at the Oval Office.
“This is a letter from Your Majesty, the king. It’s an invitation for a second state visit. This is really special. This has never happened before. This is unprecedented,” Starmer said, while touching Trump’s shoulder.
Trump expressed his enthusiasm, responding, “The answer is yes. We look forward to being there and honoring the king and honoring really the country.”
Historic Visit to Windsor Castle
With Trump’s acceptance, he becomes the first elected political leader in modern times to be hosted for two state visits by a British monarch.
In a post on X, the White House confirmed the news:
“President Donald J. Trump, responding to an invitation from King Charles for a second state visit: ‘We look forward to being there and honoring the King, honoring the country.’ @Keir_Starmer.”
Trump’s Previous Royal Engagements
- During his first term, Trump met Queen Elizabeth II twice—once in July 2018 and again during a formal state visit in June 2019.
- He also visited Buckingham Palace for a NATO summit in December 2019.
- In December 2024, as President-elect, Trump met Prince William in Paris after attending the reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral.
King Charles and the British Monarchy
- King Charles III ascended to the throne in 2022, following the passing of Queen Elizabeth II.
- Windsor Castle, located in Berkshire, serves as the official residence of the British monarch and is primarily used for state visits and royal events.
- Trump has previously praised Charles, stating in an interview that the King is “fighting very hard” through his cancer diagnosis.