Talk of King Charles and Queen Camilla visiting the United States in 2026 has been gaining momentum, with reports hinting at diplomatic discussions between London and Washington. Next year also marks the 250th anniversary of American Independence, with nationwide celebrations set for July 4, 2026.
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The potential trip could be part of a larger diplomatic effort to reinforce the ‘special relationship,’ between the two countries, particularly under President Trump’s second term. If the visit goes ahead, it would be the first time a British monarch has stepped on US soil since Queen Elizabeth II’s trip in 2007. Given Trump's adoration for the Royal Family, it could be a move that is very much welcomed by the current President.
A US visit by the monarch in 2026? What has been said
Reports have suggested that a royal visit to the US is under construction but nothing has been confirmed yet. Talk of King Charles and Queen Camilla making a historic visit to the United States gained momentum after The Telegraph published a detailed report on the evolving diplomatic landscape between the two nations, and suggested that it could be possible.
According to the publication, based on the recent tensions between the UK and the US, Sir Keir Starmer should invite Trump to visit Britain. One person involved in the supposed planning of such an event has stated that ‘all options’ to host Trump in Britain are currently on the table.
If Trump is hosted by Britain, he will be the first elected leader to be offered two state visits since records began in 1954.
Apart from hosting Trump, UK government officials are said to be also discussing ‘deploying either the Prince and Princess of Wales, if she is well enough, or the King and Queen to the US later in Trump’s term.’ The obvious reason behind the visit would be to strengthen UK-US relationships. A source said:
We can offer the President the pomp here, but also offer the pomp there.
While some officials are concerned that the monarch may reject the idea of being treated as a ‘diplomatic tool,’Town & Country noted that he has maintained personal correspondence with Trump and written letters to him. Melania also revealed in her memoir that the couple exchanged letters with the King.
The Mirror has also weighed in the discussion with an eye-catching front-page headline: ‘King’s Trip to Charm Trump.’ The report echoed the growing speculation that UK officials see the monarchy as a vital tool in reestablishing positive relations with the US government. However, a Buckingham Palace source was quick to downplay the reports, stating:
There are no current dates in the diary for Their Majesties to tour either Canada or the USA, or active Palace planning taking place for either option.
Mirror also stated that Charles and Camilla could go on a combined America and Canada tour next year. It is understood if such a tour were to happen it would take place in the ‘first half of next year’ most likely the Spring. Buckingham Palace is said to be ‘overwhelmingly keen’ on the tour and has been working with the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) to execute the plan, as per sources. A government source also stated:
This will undoubtedly be the biggest tour of the King’s reign so far, a huge undertaking for a British monarch to be hosted in the United States.
Americans love the British royal family and it is a great opportunity for both sides to reaffirm the special relationship in such an important and historic year for the US.
Prince William viewed as a ‘key’ to strengthening UK-US ties
According to The Telegraph, Prince William is also expected to play a crucial role in strengthening UK-US relations.
Prince William recently had a meeting with President Trump during the reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, where their conversation was described as ‘warm.’ Trump has publicly praised William, calling him ‘a really good man’ and noting that he is ‘doing a fantastic job.’
A White House insider told the publication how Prince William now holds a ‘really powerful, really important’ influence on the future of this ‘special relationship.’
The UK government appears keen to capitalize on this relationship, with sources suggesting that both William and the King could be deployed as part of a ‘soft power’ diplomatic mission. A Palace insider stated:
[The Prince] realises the important role he and his family play.
It’s important that we’re not involved in day-to-day politics, but when the time is right and there’s an ask for support from His Majesty’s government, the Prince is happy to play his role and support where needed.
There is a definite willingness to support where there is an ask.
Will King Charles visit Prince Harry during his US visit?
One of the biggest questions surrounding the potential US visit is whether King Charles will take the opportunity to meet Prince Harry and his grandchildren, Archie and Lilibet. Mirror's royal expert Tom Quinn previously commented on the possibility, claiming that King Charles has privately expressed frustration over his lack of contact with Harry’s children and has even discussed plans for a potential visit.
Quinn told the publication in 2024:
Charles has had discussions about an official visit to the United States at some time in the future, and there is no doubt if it goes ahead he would build in time to visit his youngest son and his grandchildren…
Charles’ relationship with Harry remains complicated. From what is publicly known, the King has only met Lilibet once and has seen Archie a handful of times. Harry has previously stated that he does not feel comfortable bringing his children to the UK due to security concerns. His ongoing legal battle over police protection makes the possibility of a UK visit with his children unlikely, further increasing speculation that a US visit might be Charles’ best chance to reconnect with his son and grandchildren.
Quinn has also suggested that Charles could consider a discreet, private visit to Montecito, where Harry and Meghan live, to avoid media scrutiny. He said:
King Charles has privately visited many other countries – he made an unpublicised visit to Transylvania for example to check up on his rental properties – so it’s certainly possible that he would make a discreet private visit to Harry and the children in California.
He is desperate to see them and hates the idea that Archie and Lily will not remember him as the warm friendly grandfather he wants to be.
This article has been created using the help of AI.
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Sources used:
Town & Country Magazine: Will There be a Royal Visit to the U.S. Next Year?
The Telegraph: This is the most important soft power mission of the century. Prince William is key
Mirror: King Charles to be drafted in on 'charm offensive' US trip to smooth Trump relations
Mirror: King Charles 'in discussions to visit America amid desperation over Prince Harry feud
