US President Donald Trump has indicated that a date is being arranged for him to visit the United Kingdom this September, where he expects to meet with King Charles III.
Speaking to reporters in the Oval Office on Thursday, Mr Trump said he was “invited by the King and the country – great country”, and expressed deep admiration for the monarch, calling himself “a friend of Charles” and someone who holds “great respect” for the Royal Family.
Although the White House has not formally confirmed the trip, and Buckingham Palace has declined to comment, it is understood that preparations are under way for what would be an unprecedented second state visit for a US president — the first of its kind for any individual. Mr Trump was previously hosted by the late Queen Elizabeth II during his state visit in June 2019.
“They’re going to do a second, as you know, a second fest… that’s what it is: a fest, and it’s beautiful,” Mr Trump said. “It’s the first time it’s ever happened to one person… and the reason is we have two separate terms, and it’s an honour.”
Asked about the scale of the upcoming visit, Mr Trump remarked: “I don’t know how it can be bigger than the last one. The last one was, as you know, incredible. But they say it’s going to be even more important, so it’s a great honour to be so chosen.”
The Telegraph has reported that Windsor Castle is now expected to serve as the venue for the visit, rather than the previously speculated Balmoral or Dumfries House. This would align with precedent for returning US presidents, such as George W. Bush and Barack Obama, who were hosted for more modest events—typically tea or lunch—during their second terms.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer personally extended the King’s invitation to Mr Trump during his visit to Washington in February, describing it at the time as a “truly historic” gesture.
While the visit will carry considerable ceremonial weight, there are also strategic motivations behind the UK’s outreach. The Government continues to seek economic assurances in the face of Mr Trump’s decision to impose 10% tariffs on all imported goods entering the United States, a policy move that has already disrupted a number of British exporters.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves is due to travel to the US next week for further talks, and on Thursday she confirmed that “active negotiations” are under way to try and reach a broader economic understanding with the Trump administration.
“I will also be having conversations with the US administration whilst I’m there,” Reeves said, suggesting the Government remains hopeful of making progress.
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However, President Trump struck a more reserved tone later in the day, indicating that any agreements would be pursued on his own terms and timing.
“We’re in no rush,” he told reporters. “We have a lot of countries that want to make a deal. Frankly, they want to make deals more than I do.”
Mr Trump’s comments will be closely watched on both sides of the Atlantic, as Britain attempts to navigate a complicated relationship with Washington under the current administration. While Mr Trump’s return to power has sparked concerns in some quarters, others see an opportunity for renewed cooperation on trade and defence.
If confirmed, the September visit will be another chapter in the Trump monarchy dynamic—one marked by pageantry, political tension, and mutual curiosity. Whether it results in closer diplomatic ties or further uncertainty remains to be seen.
