Windsor Castle played host to a memorable evening on Wednesday as King Charles welcomed former US President Donald Trump for a State Banquet.
The atmosphere was a mix of ceremony, tradition, and good-natured humor, as the King delivered a speech that had the room laughing while reflecting on the deep ties between the United States and the United Kingdom.
King Charles Remembers Nixon’s Royal Obsession
In a charming and witty moment, King Charles reminisced about a visit from former President Richard Nixon in the 1970s.
The King revealed that Nixon, who he jokingly described as “royal-obsessed,” had once tried to arrange a marriage between him and Nixon’s daughter, Tricia.
“Had the media succeeded in the 1970s in their own attempt at deepening the special relationship, I might have been married off within the Nixon family!” the King quipped, earning laughter from the guests.
Celebrating a “Special” Relationship
Before the humorous anecdote, the King warmly welcomed the Trumps to Windsor Castle, emphasizing the long-standing and enduring bond between the UK and the US.
He highlighted the relationship’s foundation in friendship, shared values, and a history of collaboration.
“This unique and important occasion reflects the enduring bond between our two great nations,” King Charles said.
“Anchored by the deep friendship between our people, this relationship, which our predecessors long called ‘special,’ has made us safer and stronger through the generations.”
He went on to note how the two nations have “fought and died together for the values we hold dear,” and how innovation, trade, and cultural exchange have shaped their shared history.
From the Revolutionary War to Modern Kinship
King Charles didn’t shy away from history either, referencing the War of Independence with a touch of humor.
He recalled his five-times-great-grandfather, King George III, who had little patience for the revolutionary leaders.
“Today, however, we celebrate a relationship neither Washington nor King George III could have imagined,” he said.
“The ocean may still divide us, but in so many other ways we are now the closest of kin.”
Highlighting Cooperation Across Fields
The King also celebrated the extensive collaboration between the UK and US in fields such as culture, science, defense, security, intelligence, military, and environmental protection.
He concluded his speech by toasting the “remarkable bond” and shared commitment to liberty and independence that unites both nations.
Trump’s Banquet Experience
Seated between King Charles III and Princess Kate, Donald Trump appeared in high spirits.
The First Lady, Melania Trump, joined him, as did their daughter Tiffany and her husband Michael Boulos.
The event also included senior royals like the Prince and Princess of Wales, the Duchess of Gloucester, and Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh.
Princess Kate shone in a couture gown by British designer Phillipa Lepley, while Queen Camilla opted for a royal blue silk marocain dress with sapphire and diamond accents, including a tiara and the King’s Family Order.
Trump Praises the Royals and the UK
In his own remarks, Trump described attending the banquet as “one of the highest honours” of his life, sparking laughter as he joked about hoping to be the only US president to make two state visits.
He praised King Charles for his son, Prince William, and his knack for remembering guests’ names.
Trump also showered compliments on the British people, calling them “lion-hearted,” and praised both the Prince and Princess of Wales.
“Princess Catherine so radiant, and so healthy and so beautiful,” he said.
About Prince William, he added, “I’ve gotten to know him and believe he will be an unbelievable success in the future.”
A Night of Tradition, Humor, and Friendship
The banquet offered a mix of royal tradition, historical reflection, and lighthearted moments that highlighted not only the strong ties between the US and UK but also the warmth and humor that can accompany such high-profile state events.