The Times: King Charles set to visit US in first royal trip for nearly 20 years

King Charles III is expected to make a historic visit to the United States in April, marking the first trip by a reigning British monarch in almost two decades, according to The Times.

The visit is part of a wider diplomatic initiative aimed at strengthening ties with President Donald Trump and supporting ongoing trade negotiations between the UK and the US.

Advanced talks are reportedly underway, with sources describing the trip as “highly likely”. If confirmed, it would be the first visit by a British monarch since Queen Elizabeth II’s state visit to the US in 2007.

Downing Street sees the royal visit as an opportunity to help secure a long-awaited trade deal with Washington. Earlier this year, the US paused a £31 billion investment in British technology over regulatory disagreements concerning online safety rules, digital taxation, and food standards. Officials hope the King’s presence could help smooth relations and revive the “special relationship” between the two countries.

While the trip is largely ceremonial, the timing is significant. The visit coincides with the 250th anniversary of American independence and precedes critical mid-term elections in the US, making it a potential diplomatic catalyst.

The King is expected to travel without Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer, although Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper may attend in a government capacity. During his stay, King Charles is likely to take part in engagements reflecting both the historical ties and contemporary partnership between the UK and US, echoing Queen Elizabeth’s participation in the bicentennial celebrations of 1976.

President Trump, who has long expressed admiration for the British royal family, previously hosted King Charles at Windsor Castle during his UK state visit in September. Trump reportedly regards the visit as an opportunity to further strengthen US-UK relations and has described the “special relationship” as unparalleled.

The planned trip forms part of a broader charm offensive, with separate visits expected by Prince William later in the year during the US-hosted football World Cup. Diplomats hope that these high-profile visits will boost trade negotiations and reinforce the enduring connection between the two nations.

By Aghakazim Guliyev