King Charles Urges U.S. Congress to Renew U.K. Alliance

King Charles III told U.S. lawmakers that the alliance between Britain and the United States is “more important today than it has ever been” as he addressed Congress during a state visit to Washington.

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Speaking to a packed chamber in the House of Representatives on Tuesday, the monarch urged both nations to reaffirm their commitment to cooperation and resist pressures to become more inward-looking. He said he felt the “weight of history” while becoming the first British monarch in 35 years to speak before Congress.

The speech came during a week-long visit to the United States with Queen Camilla and amid strains between President Donald Trump and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer over issues including the war in Iran.

Renewing a historic partnership

In his nearly 30-minute address, Charles highlighted the long-standing ties between the two countries, describing their relationship as one of reconciliation and enduring partnership.

He noted that the connection between Britain and the United States stretches beyond the 250 years since American independence, saying it reflects more than four centuries of shared history.

“The modern relationship between our two nations and our own peoples spans not merely 250 years, but over four centuries,” he told lawmakers.

Charles also paid tribute to the role of Congress as a cornerstone of American democracy, calling it a “citadel of democracy” created to represent the voices of the American people and defend their freedoms.

He urged both countries to renew their commitment to cooperation as the United States approaches the 250th anniversary of its independence.

Challenges facing the international community

The king said the address came at a time of global uncertainty, citing conflicts in Europe and the Middle East that are affecting communities in both countries.

While acknowledging that the United States and the United Kingdom do not always agree on policy, he said their alliance remains one of the most significant in modern history.

“Our two countries have always found ways to come together,” Charles said, adding that the partnership between them is “truly unique.”

He warned that the alliance must continue to evolve rather than rely solely on past achievements.

“The challenges we face are too great for any one nation to bear alone,” he said.

Security ties and global cooperation

Charles also emphasized the close defense and security links between the two countries. He pointed to their cooperation through NATO and joint military projects, including work on the F-35 fighter jet and a submarine partnership involving the United States, the United Kingdom and Australia.

He said these initiatives help strengthen collective security and resilience for the future.

The king added that the determination shown by the two nations during World War II, the Cold War and the period after the September 11 attacks remains relevant today.

He said the same resolve is needed in support of Ukraine as it seeks what he described as a “just and lasting peace”, a remark that drew bipartisan applause from lawmakers.

Response to recent violence

Charles also referred to the shooting at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner over the weekend, where the president and members of Congress were present.

He said acts of violence would not succeed and praised the courage of those who work to protect others.

“Whatever our differences, whatever disagreements we may have, we stand united in our commitment to uphold democracy and protect all our people from harm,” he said.

A rare address to Congress

The speech marked only the second time a British monarch has addressed the U.S. Congress. Queen Elizabeth II delivered the first such address in 1991.

Charles said speaking in the chamber reminded him of his late mother’s appearance there more than three decades ago.

Before the address, the king met congressional leaders including Senate Majority Leader John Thune, House Speaker Mike Johnson, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries.

Earlier in the day, President Trump and first lady Melania Trump welcomed Charles and Queen Camilla to the White House during a formal arrival ceremony. Trump praised the longstanding ties between the two countries, describing them as a “special relationship” he hoped would endure.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 29 April 2026