Donald Trump has been accused of breaking royal protocol after he tapped King Charles on the shoulder during the monarch's state visit to the United States. The incident occurred as the King and Queen Camilla arrived at the White House for a reception, where they were greeted by the President and First Lady Melania Trump.
After exchanging handshakes and cheek kisses, the group turned to head inside for a garden party. As Trump turned, he placed a hand on the King's shoulder, an action some interpreted as a breach of the unwritten rule that one should not initiate physical contact with the monarch. However, the Royal Family's official website states there are no obligatory codes of behaviour, only courtesy.
Body language expert Judi James described the gesture as 'a light, tentative and rather polite touch to steer Charles inside,' noting that King Charles has always seemed more relaxed about physical contact than his mother, Queen Elizabeth II. James added that the handshake between the two leaders lasted roughly eight seconds and appeared businesslike.
The state visit continues with a formal welcome ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, followed by King Charles addressing Congress—only the second British monarch to do so after his mother in 1991. In his speech, the King is expected to appeal for unity and peace, urging the UK and US to work together to promote security and prosperity.
