Britain’s King Charles III has expressed deep relief that US President Donald Trump, First Lady Melania Trump, and other attendees were unharmed following a shooting at a media gala in Washington, Buckingham Palace confirmed on Sunday.
The incident, which occurred late Saturday during the annual White House Correspondents’ Association dinner, came just days before the monarch and Queen Camilla are scheduled to embark on a four-day state visit to the United States.
According to the palace, the king is being kept fully informed of developments as discussions continue between British and American officials to assess whether the security situation could affect the planned visit.
“A number of discussions will be taking place throughout the day to determine the extent to which the events of Saturday evening may impact operational planning,” the palace said.
It was also gathered that the royal couple privately reached out to President Trump and his wife to express concern for those affected, while commending the swift response of security personnel in preventing further casualties.
President Trump disclosed that a law enforcement officer was shot at close range during the incident but is not believed to be critically injured.
Despite the security scare, preparations for the state visit remain ongoing. The trip, aimed at reinforcing the longstanding relationship between the United Kingdom and the United States as America marks 250 years of independence, will include stops in Washington and New York.
As part of the visit, King Charles III is expected to address the US Congress, becoming the first British monarch to do so since Queen Elizabeth II in 1991. The itinerary also includes a meeting over tea with President Trump and the First Lady, as well as attendance at a formal state dinner.
However, the visit comes at a time of strained transatlantic relations. Disagreements over the Iran conflict and lingering controversy surrounding the Epstein scandal have added tension to diplomatic ties.
President Trump has also publicly criticised British Prime Minister Keir Starmer over his stance on the conflict, as well as domestic policies on immigration and energy.
In a phone conversation on Sunday, Starmer conveyed his concern over the shooting incident and relief that the US president and his wife were safe. He also wished a swift recovery to the injured officer.
Downing Street noted that both leaders discussed the need to restore shipping operations in the Strait of Hormuz, highlighting the potential global economic impact and rising cost of living concerns tied to disruptions in the region.
King Charles III Relieved After Washington Shooting, State Visit to US Under Review
