King Charles’ upcoming state visit to the United States is set to proceed as planned, despite a recent shooting at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner, a Royal Family spokesperson confirmed on Sunday.
The British monarch, accompanied by Queen Camilla, is scheduled to arrive on Monday for a four-day visit. Although the weekend’s shooting incident at the Washington Hilton had cast uncertainty over their plans, the situation has been stabilized. During the incident, a gunman targeted security personnel, prompting the Secret Service to quickly secure President Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and other key officials.
“After comprehensive discussions across the Atlantic throughout the day, and following governmental advice, we can confirm that Their Majesties’ State Visit will continue as originally scheduled,” a Buckingham Palace spokesperson announced on Sunday.
“The King and Queen are deeply appreciative of the swift efforts by all involved to maintain the visit’s schedule and are eager to commence their engagements tomorrow,” the spokesperson added.
According to a Palace insider, Charles and Camilla have personally reached out to President Trump and First Lady Melania to extend their condolences and support following the shooting incident.
During the visit, King Charles is set to have a private meeting with President Trump at the White House. Furthermore, the monarch will address Congress, commemorating the 250th anniversary of America’s independence from Britain.
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, who was born in the former British colony of Uganda, is due to meet Charles at the 9/11 memorial on Wednesday.
A palace source said there might be small operational changes to one or two engagements in light of the Saturday night attack, although it wasn’t clear what those changes might be.
Earlier, the spokesperson said Charles was being kept fully informed of developments and was relieved that Trump, his wife, and all guests had been unharmed.
Acting US Attorney General Todd Blanche reassured the British that Charles and Camilla would be safe during their trip.
US authorities believe the alleged gunman Cole Allen was targeting the president and top administration officials, Blanche added.
British officials will be in touch with the Secret Service throughout the royal visit, British official Darren Jones said Sunday.
“In respect of His Majesty’s visit to the United States next week … our security services obviously remain in close cooperation in advance of that,” Jones told Sky News.
The visit comes at a time of strained relations between London and Washington, worsened over Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s refusal to support Trump’s military action in Iran.
With Post wires.
