King Charles has extolled the importance of Britain's 'special relationship' with the US in a speech to Congress, making pointed references to Nato, the defence of Ukraine and the climate crisis. The address, marking the 250th anniversary of American independence, is seen as a veiled plea to Donald Trump to return to traditional European alliances.
Charles said: 'America's words carry weight and meaning, as they have since independence. The actions of this great nation matter even more.' He praised the historic bond, calling it 'truly unique', and urged 'unyielding resolve' in supporting Ukraine to 'secure a truly just and lasting peace'.
The king also emphasised action on the climate crisis, warning that 'we ignore at our peril the fact that natural systems provide the foundation for our prosperity and our national security'. He highlighted the importance of trade, noting $430bn in annual trade and $1.7tn in mutual investment between the two nations.
Charles backed Nato, describing US armed forces and allies as 'pledged to each other's defence', and endorsed the Aukus submarine programme. The speech was the first by a British royal to Congress since 1991, and Charles noted the world had grown 'more volatile and more dangerous' since then.
The address followed a private arrival at the White House, amid fears of public disagreement similar to Volodymyr Zelenskyy's visit last year. Trump later hosted a state dinner, having earlier declared 'Americans have no closer friends than the British'.
