King Charles has stood up for everything Trump has run roughshod over - but it might not be enough, according to The Mirror's Royal Editor Russell Myers, who has had a front row seat watching the King and Queen's US state visit this week.
Myers says Charles has provided a masterclass in diplomacy during the historic visit to the United States, which could not have been more different from typical royal tours abroad. The speeches delivered by monarchs or senior members of the royal family are not always heard beyond the audience in front of them, but this state visit has been a stark reminder of just how divisive recent times have been.
A masterclass in diplomacy
For all the smiles, firm handshakes and flattery - of which we have witnessed in abundance from both sides - time and time again, Charles has provided a masterclass in diplomacy. Against a backdrop of the widely heard 'No Kings' protests across the country - in opposition of this most controversial Trump administration - our monarch has given consideration to the advantages of his office, that by its very notion can rise above turbulent political discourse.
His words have been carefully chosen in recognition of the audience and in the hope they may turn the tide of disgraceful rhetoric from the President and his administration, towards those who are meant to be allies. From our historic shared values and the importance of collaboration, to fighting for justice and peace, and standing on the right side of history, the King stood up for everything Trump and his team have run roughshod over in this most devastating second term.
Defending NATO and checks and balances
Any argument against sending the King on this visit has diminished with each carefully crafted sentence Charles delivered. Noting the Magna Carta and reminding his hosts at the joint session of Congress that it has been cited in more than 160 US Supreme Court cases since 1789, Charles's words on the importance and need for 'checks and balances' of those who wield power were significant.
The King's staunch defence of NATO, at a time when Trump has frequently threatened withdrawal from the military alliance, despite being involved in a war in Europe and wading into another devastating conflict in the Middle East, can also not go unnoticed. For those with short memories, such as the current White House resident, the upcoming 25th anniversary of the 9/11 terror attacks served as a reminder of how NATO answered America's call to jointly stand up to brutal terror on its shores.
Subtle language and humour
What the King did convey in admiration and respect for this nation that celebrates its 250th anniversary this year, Trump did indeed reciprocate in equal measure with the acknowledgment of 'the greatest alliance the world has ever seen'. Never directly criticising the President or his team, the King gently made his position clear. The subtlety of language in being sure to clarify 'my prime minister' when referring to Keir Starmer, who has faced numerous jibes from Trump in recent weeks over his stance on the war in Iran, was a power play that few could muster.
His use of humour at the State Dinner in Washington to gently warn Trump from repeating his suggestion that Canada could become the 51st state - of which he is also sovereign - using the upcoming World Cup to announce his support of competing nations of which he is sovereign, was another clever use of language.
Uncertain impact
The supposed leader of the free world considers himself the puppet master and everyone should dance on his command. His reverence for the King and our late Queen especially, even his flattery of Prince William when they have met on occasion, is clear to see. And it would be difficult to argue, unlike much of what he says, that he doesn't genuinely mean it. Yet there remains a lingering doubt whether all of this posturing is nothing more than added theatre to the circus that has enveloped the US in recent times. Trump smiles out one side of his mouth and speaks from the other.
The King and his closest aides will no doubt consider this visit a success. It has achieved its immediate objectives and passed without major incident or major embarrassment. But whether it results in Trump changing his attitude remains to be seen.
