Washington, United States. King Charles will stress unity with the United States and the need to defend democratic values in an address to Congress on Tuesday, amid deep divisions between the two countries over the war in Iran.
State visit highlights bilateral ties
Charles and Queen Camilla are on a four-day state visit to the United States intended to underscore ties between Britain and its former colony over the 250 years since independence, a relationship known in recent decades as the “special relationship”.
Speech to avoid domestic political acrimony
The king is expected to steer clear of political tensions between President Donald Trump and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer while underlining shared values, including promoting peace, compassion and democracy, and protecting the environment and religious freedom. A palace source said the king will say: “Time and again, our two countries have always found ways to come together.”
Visit unfolds amid Iran-related tensions
The long-planned visit has taken place against tensions over the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran, after Trump repeatedly criticised Britain for declining to support the offensive, and after an internal Pentagon email suggested Washington could review its support for Britain’s claim to the Falkland Islands.
Second British sovereign to address Congress
The address, scheduled to begin at 3 p.m. EDT (1900 GMT), will be the second by a British sovereign to the U.S. Congress. Queen Elizabeth II spoke to both houses in 1991. The speech is expected to last about 20 minutes, the source said, and will be followed by a state dinner on Tuesday night.
Focus on alliance and global security
The speech is set to focus on deep bonds between the two nations and how the alliance can benefit global security and prosperity. It is also expected to include caution about the United States going it alone and to refer to NATO and Ukraine.
Context of NATO and Ukraine burden-sharing disputes
Trump’s administration has repeatedly criticised other members of the U.S.-led military alliance for not offering more assistance to U.S. military operations against Iran and has pressed European countries to share more of the financial burden for supporting Ukraine against Russia’s invasion.
What do you think the king’s address will signal about the future direction of the U.K.-U.S. relationship?
