King Charles just told Trump exactly what he needed to hear – but it may not be enough

April 29, 2026 — 7:05am

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London: King Charles used the power of the podium at the US Congress to deliver a gentle but compelling message to Donald Trump and the American people about the value of remembering their friends.

The King’s address was serious, persuasive and incredibly sly in the way it told the US president what his many critics think he needs to hear.

But even a superb speech, surrounded by the high ceremony of a state visit, will not be enough to restore the “special relationship” between Britain and America when Trump is unlikely to listen.

This was a very clever speech. At a time of war with Iran, the King spoke of fostering compassion and promoting peace. At a time of concern about presidential power, he spoke of the Magna Carta and its core principle that executive power is subject to checks and balances. He emphasised respect for people of different faiths.

At a time when Trump dismisses climate change, the King spoke of the “disastrously melting ice-caps of the Arctic” and the need to safeguard nature.

With a nod to Australia, he urged support for the AUKUS pact. He also addressed the doubts about Trump’s allegiances in Europe by calling for more support for Ukraine – and received sustained applause from Congress.

Every message was crafted so carefully, and spoken so mildly, that it would have been churlish for anyone to point out that the King was being........

© The Sydney Morning Herald