Royals’ Stateside Visit Sparks Hopes UK Relations Will Improve Amid President Trump’s Criticism

King Charles III and Queen Camilla, 78, are headed stateside — but their high-profile visit comes with tension. From April 27 to 30, the couple will visit Washington, D.C., where they’ll be feted at a glittering White House state dinner and Charles will address Congress.

The trip, marking the 250th anniversary of American independence, is meant to “celebrate the historic connections and the modern bilateral relationship between the United Kingdom and the United States,” Buckingham Palace said in a statement, per multiple reports. Still, it’s unfolding against a complicated backdrop, as recent political friction — fueled by President Donald Trump’s criticism of U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer over Britain’s reluctance to join the U.S. military offensive in Iran — has strained ties between the longtime allies. Polling also suggests nearly half of Britons oppose the visit.

There are hopes, however, that Charles and Camilla’s soft diplomacy can help steady relations. One thing it won’t fix? The king’s strained relationship with Prince Harry. Reports, including from People, confirm there are no plans for the U.S.-based royal to reunite with his father during the brief trip.