King Charles III and Queen Camilla will not meet survivors of sex offender Jeffrey Epstein during their upcoming state visit to the United States later this month, according to a source at Buckingham Palace, as further details about the four-day trip were released.
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The visit, scheduled from 27 to 30 April, will see the monarch undertake a series of official engagements aimed at reinforcing ties between the UK and the US. However, despite calls from campaigners and lawmakers, palace officials say a meeting with Epstein’s victims will not take place.
Calls from Survivors and Lawmakers
In recent weeks, some survivors and political figures in the US had urged the royal couple to meet victims linked to Epstein’s abuse network. Among those calling for such a meeting were Ro Khanna, an American congressman, Epstein survivor Lisa Phillips, and relatives of the late Virginia Giuffre.
The pressure comes amid continued scrutiny of Epstein’s connections with prominent figures, including the British royal formerly known as Prince Andrew, Duke of York, whose links to Epstein have generated ongoing controversy.
However, palace sources said arranging such a meeting during the visit could interfere with ongoing investigations or potential legal proceedings related to Epstein’s case.
“We fully understand and appreciate the survivors’ position,” a source said, adding that any engagement that might affect police inquiries or possible legal action could undermine the pursuit of justice for victims.
Queen Camilla’s Advocacy
Although no meetings with Epstein survivors are planned, Queen Camilla is expected to meet representatives from organisations campaigning against domestic abuse and violence against women at events scheduled during the trip.
The Queen has long supported initiatives aimed at raising awareness of domestic violence and supporting survivors.
During a recent event at St James's Palace, she addressed survivors directly in a speech widely interpreted as acknowledging the challenges faced by those who report abuse.
“To every survivor of every kind of violence… please know that you are not alone,” she said.
Diplomacy Amid Strained Relations
The visit comes at a time of tension in the relationship between the United Kingdom and the US, particularly over disagreements surrounding the conflict with Iran.
Despite these differences, officials in London say the visit offers an opportunity to reinforce the long-standing partnership between the two countries.
Palace sources suggested the King could play a unique role in maintaining the alliance, which they said had endured through many political administrations and royal reigns.
A spokeswoman for the Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office also emphasised the value of the relationship, describing the US and Britain as close allies despite policy disagreements.
Planned Events Across Three Locations
According to the itinerary, the King and Queen will begin their visit in Washington, D.C., where they will attend several ceremonial events including a tea reception, a garden party and a military review.
King Charles is also expected to address the United States Congress — a moment officials describe as the diplomatic centrepiece of the trip.
During the visit, the King will also hold a private meeting with Donald Trump, who will host a state dinner at the White House.
The royal couple will later travel to New York City, where engagements include a visit to the National September 11 Memorial & Museum to meet first responders. Other events in the city include a community project in Harlem, a literacy programme marking the centenary of Winnie-the-Pooh, a business event and a reception.
In Virginia, the King — a long-time environmental campaigner — will visit a national park and meet members of Indigenous communities while attending events linked to the upcoming 250th anniversary of American independence.
Following the US tour, the King will travel to Bermuda before returning to the UK.
Officials say the visit will mark the 250th anniversary of US independence and celebrate the historic partnership between the two nations.
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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 15 April 2026
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