King Charles III will address the US Congress during his state visit, highlighting shared history and deep UK–US ties
King Charles III is set to deliver a landmark address to the United States Congress during his first state visit as monarch, in a speech expected to underline “shared history” and the enduring ties between the two nations.
King Charles Congress address will take place during a four-day visit to Washington beginning April 27, alongside Queen Camilla, according to Buckingham Palace.
The royal communications team said the visit will recognise the “shared history” of the United Kingdom and the United States, as well as the “breadth” of their modern relationship and deep people-to-people connections.
King Charles III will become the first British monarch to address Congress since Queen Elizabeth II did so in 1991, shortly after the Gulf War.
During the visit, the King and Queen Camilla are expected to meet US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump for tea, alongside attendance at a state dinner and military review.
US House Speaker Mike Johnson confirmed that the monarch will address lawmakers from both chambers, although Buckingham Palace has not officially released the exact timing of the speech.
The visit comes amid broader geopolitical tensions and political debate in both the UK and US, though officials have emphasised the importance of maintaining strong diplomatic relations.
In London, Prime Minister Keir Starmer backed the trip, describing it as an important diplomatic engagement that reinforces long-standing royal ties with the United States.
The King’s visit also follows ongoing controversy surrounding Prince Andrew, now known as Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, as scrutiny continues over his past associations with Jeffrey Epstein.
Following Washington, the royal couple will travel to New York for engagements with first responders and families affected by the September 11 attacks.
They are also scheduled to attend cultural and business events, including programmes linked to The King’s Trust, which supports young people in need.
The tour will conclude with visits to Virginia and Bermuda, marking key symbolic stops tied to early British colonial history and independence celebrations.
