WASHINGTON, United States — U.S. President Donald Trump has said an upcoming state visit by King Charles III and Queen Camilla could help mend strained relations between Washington and London.
In a phone interview with the BBC, Trump expressed optimism about the visit, describing the King as “a fantastic man” and saying the trip would have a positive impact on bilateral ties.
“Absolutely… He’s a brave man, and he’s a great man. They would absolutely be a positive,” Trump said.
The four-day visit, beginning Monday, will see the British monarch and Queen meet Trump at the White House. The King is also expected to hold a private meeting with the president and deliver an address to the U.S. Congress.
After engagements in Washington, the royal delegation will travel to New York, Virginia, and Bermuda before returning to the United Kingdom.
According to the UK Foreign Office, the visit coincides with the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence and aims to celebrate shared history, security, and economic cooperation.
However, the diplomatic outreach comes against a backdrop of tensions between Trump and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
Trump suggested Starmer’s political standing could depend on policy shifts, particularly on immigration and energy.
“If he opened the North Sea and if his immigration policies became strong… he can recover, but if he doesn’t, I don’t think he has a chance,” Trump said.
The remarks follow earlier criticism by Trump over Starmer’s appointment of Peter Mandelson as ambassador to Washington, which the U.S. president described as “a really bad pick.”
Differences have also emerged over the war in Iran. Trump has criticised the UK and other allies for what he views as insufficient support, while Starmer has maintained that Britain will not be drawn into a broader conflict.
“I didn’t need them at all, but they should’ve been there,” Trump said of allied involvement, adding that U.S. military action had already neutralised Iran’s capabilities.
The president characterised his calls for allied support as a “test,” suggesting Washington was assessing the willingness of partners to engage.
Trump also defended recent rhetoric warning of severe consequences if Iran failed to reach a deal, comments that drew condemnation from global figures, including the Pope and the United Nations leadership.
“The other side is dying to make a deal,” he said. “So whatever I’m saying or whatever I’m doing, it seems to be working very well.”
