The visit, which will also be attended by Queen Camilla, is being framed by the palace as an effort to strengthen bilateral relations at a moment of tension between London and Washington. The visit coincides with America’s 250th anniversary of independence and will be followed by a separate visit to the British Overseas Territory of Bermuda.It comes as tensions between the nations’ so-called “special relationship” have risen in recent weeks, with Donald Trump publicly criticizing Prime Minister Keir Starmer over Britain’s stance on the US-Israeli military campaign against Iran. Trump has accused Starmer of failing to provide adequate support, especially after London initially refused to allow US aircraft to operate from UK bases for strikes on Iran.Domestic opposition has also emerged in Britain. Senior Labor MP Emily Thornberry has suggested postponing the visit, citing the risk of diplomatic awkwardness during an active conflict, while Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey has questioned the prospects of going ahead.Still, the British monarchy’s diplomatic role, often described as “soft power,” is seen by officials as a stable channel in relations with Trump, who has consistently expressed admiration for the royal family.“Melania and I are pleased to announce that Their Majesties, the King and Queen of the United Kingdom, will visit the United States for an historic state visit from April 27-30, which will include a gala dinner at the White House on the evening of April 28,” Trump said in a statement announcing the visit at the Truth Social.“This momentous occasion will be even more special this year as we celebrate the 250th anniversary of our great nation. I look forward to spending time with the King, whom I greatly respect,” he said.The upcoming visit will be the first state visit to the US by a British monarch since Elizabeth II visited in 2007. It also follows Trump’s own high-profile state visits to the UK, including a visit hosted by the late queen in 2019 and another hosted by Charles last year.