King Charles III addressed the US Congress on Tuesday, becoming the first British monarch to do so since Queen Elizabeth II in 1991 and only the second British sovereign to address both chambers. The speech served as a central event of a four-day state visit to Washington with Queen Camilla, which coincides with the 250th anniversary of the US colonies declaring their freedom from British rule.
In his address, the King emphasized the long special relationship between the United Kingdom and the United States, stating that their destinies have been interlinked. He reaffirmed common values of democracy and freedom, asserting that the two nations stand united in their commitment to uphold these values regardless of any disagreements. King Charles also called on the US to maintain its leadership role in the world, highlighting the importance of NATO and urging unyielding resolve to defend Ukraine.
The state visit occurs amid political tension and widening differences between British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and President Donald Trump regarding the war in Iran. While the King remained studiously apolitical to avoid this acrimony, he argued for the preservation of the alliance, suggesting that the bond between the two countries is strong enough to withstand current political turmoil. Following the address, the King attended a state dinner at the White House.