King Charles speech to US Congress stresses UK‑US alliance, diverges from Trump on NATO, Ukraine, climate

King Charles speech to US Congress marked the ↑ 250th anniversary of American independence, a rare royal address that praised the trans‑Atlantic partnership while flagging sharp differences with President Donald Trump.

King Charles speech to US Congress highlights NATO and Ukraine

Clad in a pinstripe suit and light‑blue tie, the monarch told both chambers that the “special relationship” is rooted in reconciliation and shared security commitments. He lauded NATO’s Article 5, recalling the joint response after 9/11 and urging an “unyielding resolve” for Ukraine’s defense.

“Your words carry weight, and your actions matter even more,” he said, directing his remark to the assembled legislators.

Charles invoked the Magna Carta, noting that both nations’ legal traditions impose checks on executive power – a point he contrasted with recent U.S. moves that have expanded presidential authority over the military and border enforcement.

On climate, the king appealed for a joint effort to safeguard ecosystems, reminding listeners that the U.S. withdrawal from the Paris Accord and opening of public lands to drilling pose long‑term risks.

He concluded by visiting the 9/11 Memorial in New York, underscoring that the alliance “is more important today than ever.” For full transcript see Reuters.

Correction: The speech date was updated to April 23, 2024.

Words by Eleanor Cross (Chief Washington Correspondent).