King Charles Wins Standing Ovation in Congress
King Charles received a standing ovation after delivering a 28-minute address to the US Congress on Monday as his four-day state visit continued in Washington. The speech, in which the monarch highlighted the UK-US relationship and urged international cooperation, prompted renewed attention online after comments interpreted as a veiled criticism of President Donald Trump.
In the address, the King called for “unyielding resolve” in backing Ukraine and underscored the importance of the NATO alliance, while also promoting the AUKUS security partnership and urging urgent action on climate change, The Mirror reported.
The report said the speech was widely shared after being posted online by journalist Aaron Rupar, with some social media users describing the Ukraine comments as a subtle dig at President Trump. The publication also noted the address was met with applause in the chamber, with observers praising it as an example of “soft power” diplomacy during a politically sensitive visit.
Charles is only the second British monarch to address Congress, following Queen Elizabeth II in 1991, and the appearance came as the state visit seeks to reinforce transatlantic ties. The congressional moment followed previous reporting that King Charles was expected to avoid mentioning Prince Harry during the speech, reflecting the palace’s careful approach to high-profile events.
The King did not mention President Trump by name during the address, focusing instead on security, climate and shared democratic values. The state visit continues with further engagements for King Charles and Queen Camilla as officials on both sides emphasise the importance of maintaining the “special relationship” amid broader geopolitical tensions.
