King Charles Checks On Trumps After Gunshots
King Charles has issued a statement after gunshots were reportedly heard during the White House Correspondents’ Dinner in Washington, as the incident unfolded days before his state visit to the United States. Buckingham Palace said the King was being kept informed and was “greatly relieved” that President Donald Trump, First Lady Melania Trump and other guests were unharmed.
In a Buckingham Palace spokesperson’s update, Hello Magazine reported that Their Majesties privately contacted the President and First Lady to express sympathies for those affected and gratitude to the security services who prevented further injury, while discussions were set to take place about whether the events could affect operational planning for the visit.
The incident was said to have taken place at the Washington Hilton, where the President was expected to deliver a speech before being escorted out alongside Mrs Trump as the situation developed. The report said early accounts did not indicate immediate injuries, and that law enforcement activity quickly increased inside the venue.
The shooting scare comes amid a crowded royal diary in the run-up to Washington, and follows wider scrutiny of the diplomatic calendar after debate over the timing of Prince Harry’s Ukraine trip played out in the UK media earlier this week.
King Charles and Queen Camilla are due to begin the US state visit from 27 to 30 April. Palace officials indicated planning reviews would continue with American counterparts, with security and logistics expected to remain under close assessment following Saturday night’s events.
