British officials have successfully pushed for King Charles's meeting with US President Donald Trump to be held off-camera, fearing a repeat of the public confrontation Trump had with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The Oval Office meeting on Tuesday will include photo opportunities but no substantive discussions filmed.
The state visit is seen as a crucial opportunity to repair UK-US relations, which have been strained by Trump's threats of retaliation over criticism of his Iran policy by Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Chancellor Rachel Reeves. Ministers hope the King's diplomatic skills can temper Trump's aggressive statements.
Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper will accompany the King during events, ready to intervene if necessary. However, government insiders believe Charles's decades of experience with difficult figures will suffice. Trump has expressed admiration for the royal family and is not expected to cause a public incident.
The King is likely to tread a careful diplomatic line, possibly emphasising commitments to the environment and Ukraine in his speech to Congress—messages that could be seen as veiled criticisms of Trump's policies. The trip proceeds despite a recent shooting at the White House correspondents' dinner, with security arrangements adjusted accordingly.
