King Charles is set to deliver a historic address to the US Congress on Tuesday, following a meeting with President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump at the White House. The address, scheduled for 3 p.m. Eastern Time on Capitol Hill, is part of the King and Queen's four-day state visit to the United States.
This marks Charles' first visit to the US as monarch and the first state visit by a British sovereign since 2007. The royal couple is celebrating the 250th anniversary of American independence, which began with a large garden party at the British Embassy in Washington on Monday. Tuesday's address will be only the second of its kind in history; the first was by Queen Elizabeth II in 1991.
Heightened Security After Shooting
The state visit is under heightened security following a shooting at the White House Correspondents' Association dinner on Saturday night. The event was thrown into chaos after an alleged attempted assassination of President Trump. The suspect has been charged with attempted assassination.
Security arrangements for the King have been reviewed, including the deployment of drones, special forces, and undercover agents to ensure his safety during the visit.
King to Emphasise Reconciliation and Renewal
In his address to Congress, King Charles is expected to highlight the enduring US-UK relationship as one of 'reconciliation and renewal.' He will acknowledge that while the two nations have not always agreed, their shared traditions have consistently brought them together. This is seen as a tacit recognition of recent strains over the Iran war, which have caused tensions between President Trump and Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer.
The King is also expected to reference the shooting at the dinner, offering 'the highest regard and friendship of the British people to the people of the United States' in a show of solidarity.
Pressure to Address Epstein Scandal
Some members of Congress have called on King Charles to address the Jeffrey Epstein scandal during his visit. Democratic Congressman Ro Khanna publicly urged the King to acknowledge the issue in his address. The controversy has also touched the royal family through Charles' brother, Prince Andrew, who was arrested earlier this year over misconduct allegations he has denied.
Archbishop's Prayers and Diplomatic Tightrope
The Archbishop of Canterbury, Dame Sarah Mullally, said she is praying for the King and Queen during their visit, describing them as 'wonderful people.' She expressed sympathy for the King having to navigate a difficult diplomatic balance amid security concerns and strained transatlantic ties.
Garden Party Menu
Guests at the British ambassador's residence were treated to a distinctly British menu, including Scottish smoked salmon sandwiches, roasted British beef with horseradish, cucumber and dill sandwiches, and West Country cheddar with fig. Savoury bites included aged cheddar and chive quiche, while desserts featured scones with clotted cream, Bakewell tart, ginger cake, and Victoria sponge. Tea from Fortnum & Mason and Hambledon sparkling wine were also served.
Diplomatic Significance
Deputy British Ambassador James Roscoe said the King's visit 'can help enormously' in stabilising the US-UK relationship, which has shown signs of strain. He noted that the King, as a constitutional figure above politics, can draw out the ties that bind the two nations, including defence cooperation, economic links, and shared history.
