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King Charles’ state visit to the United States will go ahead as scheduled this Monday, Buckingham Palace has confirmed.
The decision follows intensive security reviews and discussions with U.S. officials after a shooting occurred at a White House-related dinner attended by President Donald Trump.
The King and Queen Camilla are set to arrive on Monday, April 28, for a four-day visit. Concerns regarding the trip surfaced after a gunman opened fire on security personnel near the White House Correspondents' Association dinner on Saturday, leading Secret Service agents to abruptly evacuate US President Trump from the venue.
Trump addressed the situation in an interview on CBS News' 60 Minutes, expressing full confidence in the safety of the upcoming royal visit.
"I think it's great; he'll be very safe," Trump said. "The White House grounds are really safe."
Acting U.S. Attorney General Todd Blanche noted that while the shooting likely targeted the President and administration officials, he is confident in the security measures surrounding the King’s itinerary. Buckingham Palace stated that while the trip remains on track, there may be minor "operational changes" to specific engagements.
The visit comes at a pivotal moment for U.S.-British diplomacy. The four-day tour is intended to reinforce a relationship that has been strained by differing perspectives on the ongoing war in Iran. Key highlights of the itinerary include: A private meeting with President Trump and an address to Congress to commemorate the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence.
Buckingham Palace confirmed that the King has been kept fully informed of the security situation and expressed relief that the President and all guests were unharmed.
"Following discussions on both sides of the Atlantic through the day, and acting on advice of government, we can confirm the state visit by their majesties will proceed as planned," a palace spokesperson said. "The King and Queen are most grateful to all those who have worked at pace to ensure this remains the case."
British senior minister Darren Jones also emphasized that U.S. and British security services continue to cooperate closely to ensure the safety of the royal party throughout the duration of the visit.
