Buckingham Palace has confirmed King Charles has written to Donald Trump to congratulate him on his inauguration.
The personal message reflected the enduring special relationship between the UK and US.
Charles and Camilla attended a dinner at Winfield House in London hosted by President Trump and the First Lady Melania Trump.
Donald Trump has long expressed admiration for the British Royal Family, frequently highlighting their significance and influence. His relationship with King Charles dates back to his State Visit to the UK in 2019 when Charles, then Prince of Wales, hosted the President and First Lady Melania Trump at Clarence House. During this visit, the Prince also accompanied Trump to several ceremonial and diplomatic events, fostering a cordial rapport.
The President of the United States of America is lead into Buckingham Palace by the then-Prince of Wales. (Defence Imagery)
In December 2024, following the ceremonial reopening of Notre-Dame cathedral, The Prince of Wales met US President Donald Trump. The meeting marked a significant diplomatic engagement between the two leaders, emphasising the enduring special relationship between the United Kingdom and the United States. Prince William become the first member of the Royal Family to meet with the US President Elect following his election win.
Trump spoke warmly about this meeting, remarking, “I had a great talk with the Prince. I asked him about his wife, and he said she’s doing well. And I asked him about his father, and his father is fighting very hard. He loves his father, and he loves his wife, so it was sad.” His comments reflected the personal tone of the discussion and the mutual respect shared during their exchange.
Donald Trump and Prince William met in Paris. (Kensington Palace)
The ongoing connection between the British monarchy and the US presidency is a testament to the broader diplomatic ties between the nations. By engaging in direct communication and hosting significant meetings, King Charles III and the wider Royal Family continue to play a pivotal role in strengthening the transatlantic partnership.
It is been reported that all possible options remain open for a potential incoming State Visit by Mr Trump to the UK and a visit by Charles to the US, but there are no plans are currently in the diary for such a visit. Foreign Monarchs, Presidents or Prime Ministers are invited to visit King Charles on the advice and request of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, with the final decision down to the UK Government.
King Charles’s letter of congratulations to President Trump underscores the Monarchy’s commitment to fostering international goodwill, a tradition that has endured for centuries and remains vital in contemporary geopolitics.
