The royal couple, aged 77 and 78, landed in Washington, D.C. on Monday, April 27, where they were formally welcomed with flowers from children of British military families and greeted by officials before walking through a ceremonial military guard.
However, the visit was already overshadowed by a recent security scare at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner, where gunshots were reported and Trump was swiftly escorted out by Secret Service. The suspect, later identified as Cole Tomas Allen, has since been charged in connection with the attempted assassination.
Lip reader claims chilling exchange
According to lip reader Nicola Hickling, Trump appeared to reference the incident upon greeting the King, saying: “This shooting …”
Charles reportedly responded with unease: “I’d rather not stand about here too long. I feel I shouldn’t be here.”
Trump is then said to have reassured him, asking if he was alright and adding: “It’s not a good thing. I wasn’t prepared, but now I am prepared.”
The conversation allegedly took a more serious turn when Trump brought up global tensions, reportedly telling the monarch: “So right now, I am talking to Putin. He wants war.”
Charles appeared to try to steer the conversation away, replying that they could discuss it later, but Trump continued: “I’ve got a feeling… if he did what he said, he will wipe out the population.”
The King again attempted to deflect, saying: “Another time.”
A shift in tone
Following the tense exchange, Trump reportedly lightened the mood, pointing out a newly added feature of the White House and offering the royal couple a look inside.
“You can see right through there. Right the way through to the ballroom. Would you like to see?” he is said to have asked.
Charles reportedly laughed softly and replied: “I’m sure you shall show us.”
A packed state visit itinerary
Despite the dramatic start, the visit is proceeding as planned. After their arrival, Trump and First Lady Melania Trump hosted a private tea before guiding the royals around the White House grounds.
Later, the King and Queen attended a large garden party at the British ambassador’s residence, where hundreds of guests representing both nations gathered.
The visit includes a formal State Arrival Ceremony, a bilateral meeting between Trump and Charles, and a major speech by the King to the U.S. Congress — following in the footsteps of Queen Elizabeth II.
The itinerary also features a State Dinner, a visit to the 9/11 memorial in New York, meetings with community leaders, and cultural engagements.
Looking ahead
The royal couple will conclude their visit with a return to the White House for a formal farewell before traveling to Virginia and later Bermuda.
While the reported private exchange has drawn attention, the broader focus remains on diplomacy, tradition, and strengthening ties between the UK and the United States.
