While the leaders appeared cordial, attention quickly shifted online to Trump’s physical gestures, with some critics calling them inappropriate or disrespectful.

The visit comes at a time of strained relations between the U.S. and the U.K. Trump has previously taken a sharp tone toward British leadership, even calling Prime Minister Keir Starmer a “loser” and saying he was “no Churchill” over disagreements tied to the Iran conflict. When asked earlier this month about relations between the two nations, Trump bluntly replied, “Not good, not good at all.”

A Diplomatic Effort to Rebuild Ties

Amid these tensions, the royal visit is seen as an important step toward improving relations. During his address to Congress, King Charles emphasized the long-standing connection between the two countries.

“Standing here today, it is hard not to feel the weight of history on my shoulder – because the modern relationship between our two Nations and our own peoples spans not merely 250 years, but over four centuries. It is extraordinary to think that I am the nineteenth in our line of Sovereigns to study, with daily attention, the affairs of America,” he said.

He continued:

“So, I come here today with the highest respect for the United States Congress; this citadel of democracy created to represent the voice of all American people to advance sacred rights and freedoms.”

Reflecting on the past, the King added:

“Speaking in this renowned chamber of debate and deliberation, I cannot help but think of my late mother, Queen Elizabeth II, who, in 1991, was also afforded this signal honor and similarly spoke under the watchful eye of the Statue of Freedom above us. Today, I am here on this great occasion in the life of our Nations to express the highest regard and friendship of the British people to the people of the United States.”

Controversy Over Trump’s Gestures

Despite Trump’s well-known admiration for the Royal Family, some observers felt he may have overlooked traditional etiquette. Although bowing is not required, certain customs still apply—particularly around physical contact.

Photos from the visit show Trump patting King Charles on the back, touching his knee in the Oval Office, and placing a hand on Queen Camilla’s arm. These moments sparked debate online, with one user calling the gesture “so disrespectful.”

Others echoed similar concerns:

“I do not think you are supposed to touch a King or Queen, but, of course, Trump loves breaking protocol.”

“I noticed that too. Trump also touched Camilla.”

“Forget etiquette – Donald has never heard of the word, nor has he heard of respect.”

Still, not everyone agreed. Some defended the president, suggesting he was simply being friendly or helpful.

What Royal Protocol Actually Says

Royal etiquette can be stricter than many realize. Traditionally, physical contact with a monarch should only happen if the royal initiates it, usually in the form of a handshake. Casual gestures like pats on the back or touching an arm are generally discouraged.

However, these customs are not legally binding, and interpretations can vary. While some viewed Trump’s actions as inappropriate, others saw them as harmless.

Mixed Reactions from the Public

Despite the criticism, many people praised Trump and the First Lady for their hospitality.

“Thank you for such a warm welcome to Their Majesties!” one person wrote.

Another commented, “I’m so proud of President and Mrs Donald J. Trump! I’m proud of how gracious and good willed you both are.”

A third added, “A historic, diplomatic moment. When leaders meet with mutual respect at the White House, it’s more than ceremony – it’s a reminder of the long-standing alliance and shared history between the two nations.”

A Visit Balancing Optics and Diplomacy

The state visit highlights both the importance of diplomacy and the scrutiny that comes with it. While the goal remains to strengthen ties between the U.S. and the U.K., even small gestures can spark widespread debate, showing how closely such high-profile interactions are watched.