Trump says royal visit could help stabilize UK-US relations amid tensions

Donald Trump said the upcoming visit of King Charles III and Queen Camilla could help ease tensions in relations between Washington and London, even as differences have emerged over trade, security and policy priorities. In response to a BBC phone interview, when asked if the trip could help improve relations, Trump struck an optimistic note, saying, “Absolutely. He is fantastic. He is a wonderful man. The answer to that is absolutely yes.” He said, “I know him well, I’ve known him for years.” He said, “He’s a brave man, and he’s a great man. They will certainly be positive.” According to British officials, the king and queen’s four-day US visit begins on Monday, with major events expected at the White House, including talks with Trump. A wide-ranging program is also likely to highlight the historic ties between the two countries, including cooperation on security and economic ties, as well as commemorations of 250 years of US independence. However, underlying tensions remain. Trump pointed to differences with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Tensions have also emerged over foreign policy, with Trump reiterating his call for expanded oil and gas drilling in the North Sea, particularly on immigration rules and energy policy, and threatening US tariffs unless Britain reconsiders its digital services tax on US tech companies. While the broadcaster has acknowledged an error, the royal visit is being seen in diplomatic circles as an opportunity to stabilize ties and re-establish ties between the two old allies.