Security arrangements for King Charles III's upcoming state visit to the United States are being reviewed following a shooting incident at a Washington dinner attended by US President Donald Trump. The attack occurred at the White House Correspondents' Association dinner on Saturday night, causing chaos and leading to the evacuation of President Trump and other senior officials by Secret Service agents.
Government and Palace in Close Cooperation
Chief Secretary to the Prime Minister Darren Jones confirmed that teams are working closely to ensure appropriate security measures are in place. Speaking to Sky News, Jones stated: "As you would imagine, with His Majesty the King, this week our teams are working closely to ensure that security arrangements are put appropriately in place."
When asked by the BBC about additional security measures, Jones added: "As you would imagine, the government and the Palace were in close cooperation with American counterparts in advance of the visit anyway, and further discussions will be taking place today, ahead of next week." He assured that "there will be appropriate security in place in relation to the risk, yes."
Prime Minister's Response
Jones also revealed that Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has sent a message to President Trump "in solidarity" after the incident. In a statement on social media, Starmer expressed shock at the scenes, condemning any attack on democratic institutions or press freedom, and expressing relief that the President, First Lady, and attendees were safe. The relationship between Starmer and Trump has been strained due to the UK's refusal to participate in the Iran war.
Details of the Incident
The suspect, identified as Cole Tomas Allen, 31, of Torrance, California, was reportedly carrying a shotgun and handgun. He was a guest at the Washington Hilton hotel where the event was held. Charges include assaulting an officer with a dangerous weapon, with acting Attorney General Todd Blanche indicating additional charges will be filed. President Trump posted images of the suspect handcuffed on Truth Social, describing him as a "lone wolf whack job."
Trump, attending the dinner for the first time as president, vowed to reschedule the event at a late-night press conference, noting that the incident had unified political opponents and the media.
The State Visit
The state visit, beginning at the end of the month, marks the 250th anniversary of American independence and will kick off celebrations across the US. King Charles and Queen Camilla will attend a "block party" to mark the milestone. Their first meeting with President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump will be a private tea, captured only by cameras. Later, Trump and the King will hold talks in the Oval Office, while Camilla and Melania participate in a joint event.
Buckingham Palace declined to comment on security matters, stating it does not discuss such arrangements.
