King Charles III is set to deliver a landmark address to the United States Congress, urging renewed unity between the UK and the US and reaffirming shared democratic values at a time of growing geopolitical tension.
The speech comes during a high-profile four-day state visit to the United States by King Charles and Queen Camilla, aimed at strengthening the long-standing “special relationship” between Britain and its former colony, now one of its closest allies.
In his address, the King is expected to highlight the importance of cooperation on global security, democracy, and stability, while avoiding direct reference to political disputes between the UK and US governments.
A Buckingham Palace source said the King will stress that, despite occasional differences, “time and again, our two countries have always found ways to come together.”
The visit takes place against a backdrop of diplomatic strain linked to the ongoing US-Israel war with Iran, with tensions rising after criticism from US President Donald Trump over Britain’s stance, alongside reports of US defence discussions that could affect wider allied relationships.
The speech, scheduled for 3pm EDT (1900 GMT), will mark only the second time a British monarch has addressed Congress, following Queen Elizabeth II’s historic visit in 1991.
It is expected to last around 20 minutes and will focus on defence cooperation, intelligence sharing, and shared commitments through NATO, as well as support for Ukraine and wider European security.
The King is also expected to warn against global fragmentation and emphasise the need for allied nations to remain united in the face of international instability.
King Charles III, who previously served in the Royal Navy, is expected to reflect on his personal connection to Britain’s armed forces and the enduring defence ties between London and Washington.
The address has been carefully prepared with input from the UK government, although Buckingham Palace sources say the tone and framing reflect the King’s own priorities, particularly around peace, environmental protection, and international cooperation.
The British government views the visit as a key diplomatic opportunity to reinforce relations with the US, particularly given Donald Trump’s well-documented admiration for the royal family.
Beyond Washington, the royal visit includes engagements focused on remembrance, diplomacy, and environmental issues.
Earlier in the trip, the King and Queen met President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump at the White House before attending a reception with US political and media figures.
Later this week, the royal couple will travel to New York to attend a memorial event honouring victims of the 11 September 2001 attacks, before concluding the visit in Virginia with engagements focused on conservation and climate initiatives, a long-standing priority for the King.
The trip is widely seen as a symbolic effort to reinforce the UK–US alliance at a time of international uncertainty, with King Charles positioned as a unifying figure in one of Britain’s most important diplomatic relationships.
