LONDON, United Kingdom — King Charles III will proceed with his planned state visit to the United States despite a shooting at a Washington event attended by Donald Trump, Buckingham Palace said on Sunday, April 26, 2026.
The four-day visit, which begins Monday, will see the King and Queen Camilla travel to Washington and other locations in the United States, with engagements including a meeting with Trump and an address to Congress marking 250 years since U.S. independence.
The confirmation followed discussions between British and American officials after a gunman opened fire near the White House Correspondents’ Dinner on Saturday, prompting security personnel to evacuate the president and other guests.
Visit to Proceed With Adjustments
“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 Buckingham Palace spokesperson said.
A palace source indicated that there could be minor operational adjustments to some engagements, but the overall programme would remain unchanged.
The King and Queen were said to have expressed their sympathies privately to Trump and Melania Trump following the incident.
Security Assurances
Trump said in an interview on CBS News’ “60 Minutes” that the visiting monarch would be safe. “I think it’s great; he’ll be very safe,” he said.
“The White House grounds are really safe.”
Acting U.S. Attorney General Todd Blanche said authorities believed the suspect intended to target administration officials and expressed confidence in security arrangements for the visit.
British minister Darren Jones said security services from both countries were working closely ahead of the visit.
“Our security services obviously remain in close cooperation in advance of that,” he told Sky News.
Diplomatic Context
The visit is expected to include a private meeting between the King and the president, as well as ceremonial events and engagements with American communities.
It comes at a time of strain in relations between the United States and the United Kingdom, including differences over the war involving Iran.
Officials have said the trip is intended to reinforce ties between the two countries, with the King expected to address a joint session of Congress during the visit.
Despite the recent security incident, both governments indicated that preparations for the state visit remain on track, with authorities continuing coordination to ensure safety throughout the programme.
