King Charles III told the U.S. Congress that despite rising tensions in Europe and the Middle East, the United Kingdom and United States remain united in defending democracy, even as divisions grow over the war with Iran.
"Whatever our differences, whatever disagreements we may have, we stand united in our commitment to uphold democracy, to protect all our people from harm, and to salute the courage of those who daily risk their lives in the service of our countries," King Charles told U.S. lawmakers.
In a speech Buckingham Palace had said would avoid politics, the King nevertheless referenced President Donald Trump’s criticism of NATO and stressed the importance of continued U.S. support for Ukraine in its war with Russia.
He also warned about the dangers of isolationism and called for safeguarding nature, a cause he has championed for much of his life.
Trump has been highly critical of NATO and European allies, most recently over their reluctance to provide military help in the U.S.-Israeli war against Iran. Trump has also been ambivalent about prolonged U.S. financial and military aid to Ukraine.
Charles referred to the 11 September, 2001, attacks, saying, "we answered the call together, as our people have done so for more than a century, shoulder to shoulder through two world wars, the Cold War, Afghanistan and moments that have defined our shared security today.
Charles' speech came on the second day of a four-day state visit to the U.S. during a tense time in relations between the two countries, after Trump has repeatedly criticised UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer for what Trump says is his lack of help in prosecuting the Iran war.
The King was only the second British sovereign to address the U.S. Congress. His mother, Queen Elizabeth II, spoke to both houses in 1991.
As a British monarch, Charles' speech was written on the advice of the UK government. But his call to safeguard nature reflected a personal, near lifelong passion: How human behavior needs to be in harmony with nature.
"As we look toward the next 250 years, we must also reflect on our shared responsibility to safeguard nature, our most precious and irreplaceable asset," the King said.
The White House on social media shared a photo of Trump and Charles with the caption "TWO KINGS."
Trump and his allies have repeatedly objected to the "No Kings" protests against his administration, saying that he is not a king, and this week have accused critics of the president of fanning flames of anger that have led to attempts on his life.
Earlier, during a ceremonial reception at the White House, Trump stressed the friendship that has evolved between Britons and Americans since their days as adversaries during the War of Independence.
After escorting the King and Queen to their limousine for departure from the White House, Trump told reporters, "It was a really good meeting. He’s a fantastic person. They’re incredible people and it’s a real honour."
As tensions between the two countries have grown over the U.S.-Israeli war with Iran, an internal Pentagon email suggested Washington could review its support for Britain's claim to the Falkland Islands.
One topic that Charles has sought to avoid on this visit is the Jeffrey Epstein scandal.
Charles' brother, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, whose reputation and royal standing have been destroyed over his links to the late U.S. sex offender, is currently facing police inquiries over his connections. Former Prince Andrew has denied any wrongdoing.
Royal sources have said it was not possible for the royal couple to meet any victims of Epstein during the tour, as some have requested, to avoid impacting any potential criminal cases.
Charles was scheduled to attend a state dinner at the White House on Tuesday night, the first since Trump had the East Wing torn down to make way for his planned ballroom.
The East Wing for decades has been the official entrance for guests arriving for state dinners and other functions, and with the area now a construction zone, they will have to take a different route into the building.
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