Trump and the Royals: A Complicated History
Donald Trump’s connection with the British Royal Family has always been complex. During his first State Visit to the UK, he met with Queen Elizabeth II and King Charles. But according to insiders, the visit didn’t exactly win over the royals.
Now, Trump is scheduled to return in September for a second State Visit—this time hosted by King Charles and Queen Camilla. The announcement, however, has sparked mixed public reactions.
State Visit Confirmed Amid Ongoing Controversies
While Trump faces growing criticism due to fresh developments in the Jeffrey Epstein investigation, his UK visit is still moving forward. Plans are set, and this time, his trip won’t just be about government meetings—it will include formal engagements with the Royal Family.
On Monday, the Royal Family officially announced via social media that President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump will be hosted by King Charles and Queen Camilla from September 17 to 19.
“His Majesty The King will host The President of the United States of America, Donald J. Trump, accompanied by the First Lady, Melania Trump, for a State Visit to the UK,” read the post, featuring a throwback photo from the 2019 visit.
Why This Visit Matters for Diplomacy
Trump’s second term has been marked by a tough stance toward European allies. While UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has already made a diplomatic trip to Washington, the Royal Family continues to play a powerful symbolic role in UK–US relations.
Though King Charles remains politically neutral, his involvement in ceremonial diplomacy adds weight to this visit. A second official State Visit is rare, and reflects deep diplomatic interest on both sides.
An “Unprecedented” Invitation from the King
During Starmer’s White House visit in February, he presented Trump with a handwritten letter from King Charles inviting him to return to the UK.
“This is unprecedented,” Starmer remarked. “The last State Visit was a great success, and His Majesty wants this one to be even more memorable. It really symbolizes the strength of our relationship.”
Trump responded with admiration, describing the King as a “great gentleman” and complimenting his elegant handwriting.
Visit Logistics and Royal Protocol
Initial speculation suggested that the meeting might take place informally at one of King Charles’ summer homes in Scotland, with a longer, more official event to follow. But Newsweek clarified that royal protocol forbids unofficial meetings ahead of a State Visit.
Scheduling conflicts also made such a meeting impractical. According to a palace insider speaking to People magazine, “His Majesty has known President Trump for many years and looks forward to hosting him and the First Lady later this year.”
Mixed Reactions from the Public
While the visit has diplomatic significance, public opinion is sharply divided. The Royal Family’s social media announcement drew immediate backlash.
“Is this the first time the royals have hosted a convicted felon?” one person wrote.
Another said, “London does not accept felons—bring on the protests.”
“Why would you host him? He doesn’t deserve to meet the King!” another user questioned.
“This is disgraceful,” someone else added.
One longtime Royal supporter commented, “I’ve always defended the monarchy, but this is truly disappointing.”
Some Applaud the Meeting
Despite the criticism, many others expressed strong support for the visit.
“This is history in the making. Trump is back with strength and real leadership,” one fan wrote.
Another added, “This meeting could lead to major global decisions.”
A third supporter posted, “Two world leaders coming together—this is more important than people think.”
Trump and the Queen: An Awkward Encounter
Trump’s relationship with King Charles appears to be positive—even Melania has said they exchange letters. But that wasn’t the case with the late Queen Elizabeth.
Author Craig Brown, in his book Voyage Around the Queen, wrote that she found Trump “very rude” after their 2018 meeting. She reportedly disliked how he kept glancing past her, as if looking for someone more interesting.
Brown added that the Queen privately questioned Trump’s relationship with Melania, saying he “must have some sort of arrangement” with her—otherwise, why would she stay?
Looking Ahead
Trump’s upcoming State Visit is set to be another headline-grabbing moment in his relationship with the UK and its monarchy. Whether celebrated or criticized, it will undoubtedly be historic.
