Trump and King Charles hail ‘special relationship’ in Windsor Castle banquet

King Charles, Queen Camilla, Trump and Melania pose at Windsor Castle, 17 September 2025.
Reuters

Britain’s King Charles and U.S. President Donald Trump celebrated the enduring “special relationship” between their countries during a state banquet at Windsor Castle on Wednesday.

Charles welcomed Trump on his historic second state visit to the UK, calling the occasion “unique and important.” He said ties between the two nations are “anchored by the deep friendship between our people,” noting that 2026 will mark 250 years since the U.S. Declaration of Independence.

“Today, as tyranny once again threatens Europe, we and our allies stand together in support of Ukraine, to deter aggression and secure peace,” the king said. He also praised Trump’s “personal commitment to finding solutions” in global conflicts.

U.S. President Donald Trump delivers his speech as King Charles III and the Princess of Wales listen at the state banquet for the U.S. President and First Lady at Windsor Castle, Berkshire, on day one of their second state visit to the UK, 17 September, 2025
Reuters

Trump, the first American president invited for two state visits, called it a “singular privilege” to return. He praised Charles for preserving the “unique character of this kingdom” and described U.S.-UK ties as “irreplaceable and unbreakable.”

“The word ‘special’ does not begin to do it justice,” Trump said. “We’re like two notes in one chord, meant to be played together.”

US President Donald Trump and King Charles interact at the state banquet for the US President and First Lady Melania Trump at Windsor Castle, Berkshire, on day one of their second state visit to the UK, 17 September, 2025.
Reuters

Guests included Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Apple CEO Tim Cook, OpenAI chief Sam Altman, and media magnate Rupert Murdoch.

Trump and First Lady Melania Trump arrived Tuesday. Before leaving, Trump will meet Starmer on Thursday at Chequers, the prime minister’s country residence.

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