The King teased Donald Trump in his state dinner speech, joking that the US president would be “speaking French” without Britain.
His Majesty, whom Mr Trump is hosting at the White House, poked fun at Mr Trump’s claim in January that European leaders would be speaking German “and a little Japanese” without American intervention in the Second World War.
“You recently commented, Mr President, that if it were not for the United States, European countries would be speaking German,” the King said.
“Dare I say that, if it wasn’t for us, you’d be speaking French!”
The King’s speech was sprinkled with jokes that spoke to the long history of the “special relationship”.
At one point, he compared Mr Trump’s attempts to construct a ballroom on the site of the demolished East Wing to Britain burning down the White House in the 19th century.
“On this occasion, I cannot help noticing the ‘readjustments’ to the East Wing, Mr President, following your visit to Windsor Castle last year,” he said.
“I am sorry to say that we British, of course, made our own attempt at real estate redevelopment of the White House in 1814.”
Noting that much of the US had been named after the British Royal family, including Prince William County, the King joked: “Your maps… read rather like our Christmas card list across the ages.”
In an address to Congress earlier on Tuesday, the King cracked jokes that drew laughter from his audience. Quoting Oscar Wilde, he said: “We have really everything in common with America nowadays except, of course, language.”
Mr Trump said after the speech that he was jealous that the King had managed to bring even Democrats to their feet with his speech. “I’ve never been able to do that,” he joked.
Lindsey Graham, the South Carolina senator and one of the president’s closest allies in Congress, also praised the King’s “wit, humour, history and appreciation”.
03:28am
That’s all for now
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02:09am
Trump presented with gift from ‘valiant namesake’
The King presents Donald Trump with the bell that hung in a British submarine, HMS Trump.
“Tonight, Mr president, I am delighted to present to you – as a personal gift – the original bell which hung on the conning tower of your valiant namesake,” he tells the US president.
The King presents a bell with the inscription ‘Trump 1944’ to Donald Trump – SMIALOWSKI/AFP via Getty Images
“May it stand as a testimony to our nations’ shared history and shining future. And should you ever need to get hold of us, well, just give us a ring.”
02:07am
‘Freedom is under attack in Ukraine’
Echoing comments he made in his joint address to Congress earlier on Tuesday, the King tacitly urges Donald Trump not to abandon Ukraine.
“American leadership helped rebuild a shattered continent playing a decisive role as a defender of freedom in Europe,” he says.
“We – and I – shall never forget that, not least as freedom is again under attack following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.”
02:05am
‘Elizabeth II revived the special relationship’
In another joke that nods at recent tensions between Britain and the US, the King talks about Elizabeth II’s first state visit to the US almost 70 years ago.
“When my mother visited in 1957, not the least of her tasks was to help put the ‘special’ back into our relationship after a crisis in the Middle East,” he says.
The King and Donald Trump raise a toast during the state dinner – Henry Nicholls / AFP via Getty Images
“Nearly seventy years on, it is hard to imagine anything like that happening today.”
02:01am
‘If it wasn’t for Britain, you’d be speaking French’
The King teases Donald Trump in his state dinner speech, joking that the US president would be “speaking French” without Britain.
His Majesty, whom Mr Trump is hosting at the White House, pokes fun at Mr Trump’s claim in January that European leaders would be speaking German “and a little Japanese” without US intervention in the Second World War.
The King speaks in the White House East Room – Chris Jackson/Getty Images
“You recently commented, Mr President, that if it were not for the United States, European countries would be speaking German,” the King says.
“Dare I say that, if it wasn’t for us, you’d be speaking French!”
02:00am
King teases Trump about White House ballroom
The King jokingly compares Britain burning down the White House during the War of 1812 to Donald Trump’s construction of a White House ballroom.
“On this occasion, I cannot help noticing the ‘readjustments’ to the East Wing, Mr president, following your visit to Windsor Castle last year,” he says.
“I am sorry to say that we British, of course, made our own attempt at real estate redevelopment of the White House in 1814.”
01:58am
King praises Trump’s courage
The King praises Donald Trump’s “courage and steadfastness” following the shooting at the White House correspondents’ dinner on Saturday.
“May I also start by paying tribute to your own courage and steadfastness, as well as to your security services for their swift actions on Saturday evening in preventing further injury.
“My thoughts and sympathies are with you, the First Lady and all those guests for whom this must have been a very upsetting incident.
“As the words of that famous anthem reminds us, this is the land of the free and home of the brave, as your own response demonstrates.”
01:50am
Trump praises special relationship
Britain and the US share a “very special and incredible friendship”, Donald Trump has said.
The King, Donald Trump and Melania Trump raise their glasses at the state dinner – REUTERS/Suzanne Plunkett
“Historians have noted that to this day, the distinct regions of the United States still echo with the particular accents, habits and traditions of the British communities that first settled them centuries ago,” the US president said.
Both nations share “a certain nobility of spirit and heroic soul”, Mr Trump continued, praising the special relationship.
01:48am
Trump: Congress liked King ‘more than any Republican or Democrat’
Donald Trump joked that the King was able to bring Democrats to their feet during his joint address to Congress.
“He got the Democrats to stand. I’ve never been able to do that,” the US president said. “I couldn’t believe it. I couldn’t believe it.”
Donald Trump speaks at the state dinner – Chris Jackson/Getty Images
Mr Trump added: “They liked him more than they’ve ever liked any Republican or Democrat, actually.”
Earlier on Tuesday, the president praised the King’s speech and joked that he was “jealous” of him.
01:34am
State dinner guest list released
Rory McIlroy, the golfer, Jeff Bezos, the Amazon founder, and several Fox News hosts are attending the state dinner this evening.
The guest list for tonight’s dinner, where Donald Trump is hosting the King, includes much of the US president’s cabinet and six Supreme Court justices.
Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and his wife Lauren Sanchez Bezos arrive at the state dinner – REUTERS/Ken Cedeno
Three of Mr Trump’s children, Ivanka, Eric and Tiffany, will attend alongside their spouses.
Fox News is well-represented at the dinner, with hosts Bret Baier, Laura Ingraham, Greg Gutfeld and Maria Bartiromo also present for the four-course dinner.
01:10am
Pictured: King and Queen accompany Trump to state dinner
Donald Trump, Melania Trup and the King and Queen arrive for a state dinner at the White House – Brendan SMIALOWSKI / AFP via Getty Images
12:50am
Queen ‘recalls Elizabeth II’ with jewellery choices
The Queen has thoughtfully chosen clothing and jewellery for this trip which recall Queen Elizabeth II’s previous visits to the US.
On Monday, there was the Cartier flag brooch, originally gifted to the late Queen in 1957 and the black and white outfit which echoed Elizabeth’s 2007 look.
Tonight, Camilla’s diamond and amethyst necklace and earrings are part of a demi-parure set once worn by Queen Victoria from which Queen Elizabeth wore the brooch during her May 1991 visit to Washington.
These subtle but meaningful callbacks create a visual thread tying these historic moments together.
12:47am
Queen goes for ‘power pink glamour’ at state dinner
Wow – after a series of fairly understated looks during the daytime events so far this trip, the Queen and First Lady are delivering the drama for this evening’s State Banquet. Did they coordinate their outfits? Both women are wearing shades of pink.
Her Majesty’s vibrant fuchsia gown, by Fiona Clare, is a real showstopper with its sequin-spangled bodice, offset by a dazzling diamond and amethyst demi-parure which has been passed down through the Queens of the Royal family, from Queen Victoria (who inherited the set from her mother) to now.
The Queen and Melania Trump enter the White House – Chris Jackson/Getty Images
The first lady has stuck to a muted blush pink shade but her gown – designed by Dior with opera gloves to match – is cut to create a striking sculptural silhouette.
Forget soft power, this is power pink glamour.
12:44am
King and Queen arrive for state dinner
The King and Queen have arrived for the state dinner alongside Donald and Melania Trump.
The King and Queen alongside Donald and Melania Trump arrive for the state dinner at the White House – Aaron Chown
12:33am
Trump ‘serving French dinner to celebrate special relationship’
The King is being served a four-course predominantly French meal to celebrate the special relationship at a state dinner this evening.
The preparations for the meal have been led by Melania Trump, the first lady, according to details of the event released by the White House.
According to a menu, the first course will feature garden vegetable velouté, hearts of palm, toasted shallots and micro mint.
This will be followed by spring herbed ravioli, ricotta cheese, morels and parmesan emulsion.
The King will then be served dover sole meunière, potato pavé, spring ramps, snow peas and parsley oil “for a refined, seasonal finish”.
Dessert is chocolate gâteau with a vanilla bean crémeux custard, set inside with an almond joconde, with honey from the White House and crème fraîche ice cream.
Donald Trump and the King ahead of the state dinner – Alex Brandon
11:53pm
US ‘must maintain bond with Britain’
A senior Republican senator has said the US must maintain its “indispensable bond” with Britain following the King’s joint address to Congress.
“I am grateful Congress had the chance to hear from His Majesty King Charles III,” Roger Wicker, who chairs the Senate armed services committee.
“Through thick and thin, the United States and the United Kingdom have maintained our indispensable bond. We must continue to do so.
“As the King said, that begins with security. Together, we are investing more in defence, partnering on the Aukus submarines, and standing alongside our Nato allies to deter the Axis of Aggressors.”
11:41pm
King praises Nato in speech to Congress
The King praised Nato and urged Donald Trump to help defend Ukraine in a pointed speech to Congress.
In a speech aimed at smoothing over tensions between Britain and the United States, the monarch reminded the president of Britain’s role in the alliance defending America after 9/11.
Earlier this month, Mr Trump told The Telegraph that he was strongly considering pulling the US out of Nato after it failed to join his war on Iran.
“Renewal today starts with security,” the King said. “The United Kingdom recognises that the threats we face demand a transformation in British defence. That is why our country, in order to be fit for the future, has committed to the biggest sustained increase in defence spending since the Cold War.”
The monarch reminded Congress that the only time that the Nato military alliance’s collective defence had been invoked was after the September 11 attacks on the United States.
“Today, Mr Speaker, that same, unyielding resolve is needed for the defence of Ukraine and her most courageous people. It is needed in order to secure a truly just and lasting peace,” he added.
10:07pm
King ‘nailed’ Congress speech, says Trump ally
The King “nailed” his address to a joint session of Congress, Lindsey Graham has said.
Mr Graham, the senator for South Carolina and an ally of Donald Trump, said: “I was so honoured to be able to attend King Charles III’s address to a Joint Session of Congress. Simply put: The King nailed it.
“His speech was a much-needed morale boost for Congress, as he glowingly praised our nation and highlighted the role Congress plays in our democratic republic.
The speech was a terrific combo of wit, humour, history and appreciation. I believe most members of Congress feel better after the speech than they did before.”
Mr Graham noted it was a “bit odd” that it fell to the King to bring together Republicans and Democrats, but added: “So be it!”
10:01pm
King ‘touched’ by Congress’ ‘warmth and generosity’
The King was “greatly touched” by the warm response from Congress to his speech earlier today.
“The King was deeply honoured to have been invited to be the first British king to give such an address and was greatly touched by the warmth and generosity of the response he received,” a Palace spokesman said.
09:41pm
White House posts ‘Two Kings’ picture
The White House has posted a picture of the King and Donald Trump with the caption “Two Kings”.
Mr Trump, a democratically elected leader, has faced criticism for repeatedly portraying himself as a monarch on social media.
The post comes a month after the latest “No Kings” demonstrations, which have seen large crowds protest against what they claim are the US president’s increasingly authoritarian policies.
09:20pm
Monarch receives ceremonial welcome at White House
The King and Queen received a formal ceremonial welcome at the White House after His Majesty’s address to Congress.
The monarch joined Donald Trump and the first lady on the south lawn of the White House to watch a military display and flyover.
09:05pm
Senior Democrat rebukes Trump in reaction to King’s speech
A senior Democrat said the King’s speech should serve as a reminder that “friends and allies matter”, in a pointed rebuke of Donald Trump’s attacks against Nato.
Chuck Schumer, the minority leader of the US Senate, said: “It has been thirty-five years since a British monarch addressed the elected representatives of the American people – the world has changed dramatically, but in many ways, the same tests remain before us.
“The visit of King Charles III should serve as a reminder to the President of the United States and to every elected official in this country: friends and allies matter.”
08:58pm
Pictured: King waves after concluding speech
King Charles III waves after speaking to a joint session of Congress – J Scott Applewhite/AP
08:56pm
King offers support to sex abuse victims amid Epstein scandal
The King offered his support to sex abuse victims in a speech to Congress following calls for the monarch to address the Epstein scandal.
His Majesty had been under pressure to acknowledge victims of Epstein on his state visit to the US, after revelations about Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s friendship with the paedophile.
The King did not mention Epstein by name, but praised British and American efforts to “support the victims of some of the ills that… exist in both our societies today”.
Ro Khanna, the Democrat House representative who spearheaded the release of the Epstein files, said he was told by Britain’s ambassador to the US that the King would acknowledge Epstein’s victims in his speech.
he King told Congress: “In both of our countries, it is the very fact of our vibrant, diverse and free societies that gives us our collective strength, including to support victims of some of the ills that, so tragically, exist in both our societies today.”
So far, it is unclear whether his words will placate critics who believe Mr Mountbatten-Windsor’s association with Epstein has tarred the monarchy.
08:45pm
Analysis: King reminds Trump of Britain’s role in Nato
Reading between the lines, the King is reminding President Trump of Britain’s role in Nato and its defence of the United States.
Earlier this month, Donald Trump told The Telegraph that he was strongly considering pulling the US out of the alliance after it failed to join his war on Iran.
Mr Trump has also lambasted Britain over its defence spending and made jokes about the size of the Royal Navy.
“Renewal today starts with security,” the monarch said. “The United Kingdom recognises that the threats we face demand a transformation in British defence. That is why our country, in order to be fit for the future, has committed to the biggest sustained increase in defence spending since the Cold War.”
08:40pm
King concludes his speech
The King has concluded his address to Congress, which lasted around 30 minutes.
It was originally written to last 20 minutes but took longer to deliver as the King was forced to repeatedly wait for rapturous applause and cheers to conclude every few minutes.
The monarch is now being greeted by senior US officials, including members of Congress and military figures.
08:35pm
King quotes Starmer amid ongoing row with Trump
The King quotes Sir Keir Starmer, who has face repeated criticism from Donald Trump in recent weeks over his response to the war in Iran.
The King says: “As my Prime Minister said last month ‘Ours is an indispensable partnership.
“‘We must not disregard everything that has sustained us for the last 80 years. Instead, we must build on it’.”
He referenced the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks this year, saying: “This atrocity was a defining moment for America and your pain and shock were felt around the whole world.”
The King adds: “We stand with you now in solemn remembrance of a day that shall never be forgotten.”
08:32pm Pictures
King’s call for defence of Ukraine met with thunderous applause
The King said the same resolve showed by the West during both World Wars and the Cold War must be shown during the defence of Ukraine.
He tells Congress: “In the immediate aftermath of 9/11, when Nato invoked Article 5 for the first time, and the United Nations Security Council was united in the face of terror, we answered the call together – as our people have done so for more than a century, shoulder to shoulder, through two World Wars, the Cold War, Afghanistan and moments that have defined our shared security.
“Today, Mr. Speaker, that same, unyielding resolve is needed for the defence of Ukraine and her most courageous people – in order to secure a truly just and lasting peace.”
The comment was met with thunderous applause by members of the House.
The King delivers an address to Congress
08:27pm
King references ‘victims’ in Congress address
The King did not specifically mention Epstein or his survivors in his address to Congress but appeared to allude to them in a comment to members of the House.
He said: “In both of our countries, it is the very fact of our vibrant, diverse and free societies that gives us our collective strength, including to support victims of some of the ills that, so tragically, exist in both our societies today.”
The King had been asked to specifically mention victims of Epstein’s crimes but declined.
In a letter to Ro Khanna, a senior Democrat, lawyers for the the King and Queen said they could not meet with the survivors due to “ongoing police inquiries” in the UK.
Earlier in the day, Mr Khanna suggested the King would allude to victims of the paedophile.
08:19pm
Remarkable scenes inside Congress as King given rapturous reception
To a British onlooker, the scenes in Congress are remarkable.
Senior American politicians are greeted like celebrities, shaking hands and hugging as they enter the room.
The King and Queen were welcomed with a roar of approval and a standing ovation before the speech ever got started.
Now he is speaking, the King must pause regularly for the clapping, as politicians spring to their feet and the King waits for quiet again.
His speeches do tend to be well-received overseas, but – once breaks for applause are factored in – this could go on for some time.
08:17pm
King hails ‘special ingredient’ in UK-US relationship
The King expresses “the highest regard and friendship” between the British and the people of the US, echoing comments made by Donald Trump earlier today.
He says: “Ours is a partnership born out of dispute, but no less strong for it. So perhaps, in this example, we can discern that our nations are, in fact, instinctively like-minded – a product of the common democratic, legal and social traditions, in which our governance is rooted to this day.
“Drawing on these values and traditions, time and again, our two countries have always found ways to come together. And by Jove, when we have found that way to agree, what great change is brought about – not just for the benefit of our peoples, but of all peoples.
“This, I believe, is the special ingredient in our relationship.”
08:12pm
King quotes Oscar Wilde joke in opening remarks
The King opens his address by referencing a joke by Oscar Wilde.
He says: “We have really everything in common with America nowadays except, of course, language!”
The remark goes down well in the chamber, with laughter breaking out in the crowd.
The King delivers an address to Congress – REUTERS
08:09pm
King and Queen arrive inside House chamber
The King and Queen have arrived inside the US House to thunderous applause, which goes on for several minutes. There’s even some shouts and cheers.
07:49pm
Members of Congress take their seats
US officials, including politicians and military chiefs, are gathering inside Congress ahead of the King’s address.
It will be the first address to Congress by a British monarch since 1991, when Queen Elizabeth II delivered a speech during the administration of George H. W. Bush.
JD Vance, the vice president, and Mike Johnson, the speaker of the House of Representatives, are reading out members of Congress who have been selected to escort the King into the chamber.
JD Vance, the vice president, greets senior US politicians in Congress – Pool Reuters
07:27pm
The King laughs at Trump’s joke about his mother’s ‘crush’
Earlier today, Donald Trump joked that his mother had a crush on the King when he was still a young prince.
“She loved the Royal Family, and she loved the Queen,” Mr Trump said of his mother.
“Any time the Queen was involved in a ceremony… my mother would be glued to the television.
“And she’d say, ‘look Donald, look how beautiful that is’. She really did love the family. I also remember her saying very clearly…‘Charles look, young Charles, he’s so cute.’
Mr Trump then turns to the King and mouths “my mother”, before adding: “My mother had a crush on Charles. Can you believe it?”
The King laughs at a joke by Donald Trump about his mother having a “crush” on him – AP
06:49pm
King arrives at US Capitol
The King has arrived at the US Capitol as he prepares to deliver the first speech by a British monarch to Congress since 1991.
As we’ve been reporting, the King is expected to acknowledge Jeffrey Epstein’s victims in his address.
We’ll bring you the latest updates from the King’s speech once it begins.
The King stands alongside Mike Johnson, the speaker of the House of Represenatives, at the US Capitol – AFP
06:42pm
Queen and Melania speak to US students about ‘special relationship’
While the president and the King held private talks in the Oval Office, the Queen and first lady joined a group of American students at the White House tennis pavilion, for a “cross-cultural” engagement to showcase education in tech.
Students used virtual reality headsets and AI-enabled glasses to learn about American history and the “special relationship with the UK”.
Emerging on to the soggy White House tennis court, as a violinist and guitarist played tunes including Abba’s Dancing Queen and Aha’s Take on Me, the Queen and Melania Trump met a group of students who were learning about the UK by looking at artefacts from the White House Collection and the National Archives and Records Administration.
They included maps and images of British landmarks like Stonehenge, the Giant’s Causeway and Snowdonia, plus a bronze bust of Winston Churchill and a portrait of John Adams, the first US ambassador to the UK.
Melanie Trump and the Queen speak with school children as they attend a cross-cultural educational event on the White House tennis pavilion – Getty Images North America
The session showcased Mrs Trump’s “Fostering the Future Together” initiative, which she launched last year, with the group, including state champions from the Presidential AI Challenge.
Offered a pair of the special glasses by one of the students, Melania tried them on, declaring the effects to be “incredible”.
While posing for a group photo with the students, a member of the US press corp called out: “Madame First Lady, how are you doing after Saturday night?” referring to the White House Correspondents’ dinner shooting.
Smiling, Mrs Trump replied: “Very well.”
Before leaving, the Queen handed out gifts of books to the students – copies of Michael Morpurgo’s War Horse.
06:22pm Pictures
Pictured: President Trump and the King inside the Oval Office
We’re starting to hear a few words off-the-cuff from the president.
Inside the Oval Office, Mr Trump said: “It’s great to have a king in here, a man of class.”
Outside, speaking briefly to reporters, he said: “It was a really good meeting. He’s a fantastic person. They’re incredible people, and it’s a real honour.”
Donald Trump sits alongside the King inside the Oval Office on Tuesday – AFP
06:14pm
Starmer’s future is ‘touch and go’, says new ambassador to US
Donald Trump spent a portion of his speech in front of the King earlier musing about the so-called “special relationship” that the US has with Britain.
But Britain’s new ambassador to the US was secretly recorded downplaying the relationship in new leaked comments.
Sir Christian Turner, who replaced Lord Mandelson in Washington last year, was also heard in a leaked recording warning that the Prime Minister was “on the ropes” and that Labour MPs could “remove him” after the local elections.
He said that America’s only special relationship was “probably Israel”, not the UK, in remarks that are likely to cause embarrassment for the King on his state visit this week.
Sir Christian’s comments came in a private session with students in February, but the Financial Times published the leaked tape on Tuesday.
The Foreign Office said: “These were private, informal comments made to a group of UK sixth-form students visiting the US in early February. They are certainly not any reflection of the UK Government’s position.”
05:40pm
What will the King say in his address to Congress?
The King will call on the United States and Britain to “come together” even when they do not agree, in a speech to Congress on Tuesday.
The King, who is in Washington for a four-day state visit to the US, is expected to say that the long tradition of transatlantic friendship benefits not just the two countries, but the world.
The spirit of friendship between the two nations is one of “reconciliation and renewal”, he will say, in carefully chosen words at a challenging time for US-UK relations.
The King and Queen’s visit follows a souring in the relationship between Sir Keir Starmer and Donald Trump, the US president, over the war in Iran.
The speech, which will last about 20 minutes, will include references to Ukraine, the Middle East, Nato and the Aukus defence pact.
05:17pm
Melania and the Queen flash a smile despite rain
The Queen and First Lady both opted for fresh spring colours again today, defiant against the Washington rain. Both women were patriotic in their choice of fashion designer, with Mrs Trump wearing a cream suit by Ralph Lauren and Her Majesty choosing a pistachio silk coatdress by Fiona Clare.
They each wore interesting accessories, too. Melania often makes a statement with her hat choices and today’s raffia design by Eric Javits was no exception – it looked like a modern take on a Henley boater to me.
The Queen’s brooch, meanwhile, is imbued with royal history. The Cullinan V diamond was gifted to Queen Mary in 1910. She had the jewel set into a heart-shaped brooch which she wore frequently before passing it on to her granddaughter, Queen Elizabeth when she died.
The late Queen Elizabeth wore it on many occasions but perhaps most memorably in the Paddington Bear sketch which she filmed at Buckingham Palace shortly before she died.
The brooch was set into Queen Camilla’s crown for the Coronation in 2023 and since then she has reverted to wearing it as a brooch. Its appearance at the White House today marks another chapter in its fascinating history.
Melania Trump and the Queen smile as they meet on the south lawn of the White House earlier today – AP
05:06pm
King to follow his late mother in addressing Congress
The King will follow in his mother’s footsteps as the only other British monarch to address Congress.
The late Queen Elizabeth II addressed Congress 35 years ago during the President George H. W. Bush’s Administration where she spoke of the importance of the “special relationship” during a 15-minute speech.
Speaking in May 1991, months after the end of the first Gulf War, the Queen “thanked the American public “for their steadfast loyalty to our common enterprise throughout this turbulent century”.
“All our history in this and earlier centuries underlines the basic point that the best progress is made when Europeans and Americans act in concert,” she said. “We must not allow ourselves to be enticed into a form of continental insularity.”
She added: “Your Congress and our parliament are the twin pillars of our civilizations and the chief among the many treasures that we have inherited from our predecessors.
The late Queen Elizabeth address Congress in 1991 – PA
The Queen, who was on her third stated visit to the US, reflected on the Gulf war and warned against reliance on military force as she made history becoming the first British monarch to address a joint session of congress.
“Some people believe that power grows from the barrel of a gun. So it can, but history shows that it never grows well nor for very long,” she said. “Force, in the end, is sterile. We have gone a better way: Our societies rest on mutual agreement, on contract and on consensus.”
“I salute the outstanding leadership of your President and the courage and prowess of the armed forces of the United States,” she said. “I know the servicemen and women of Britain, and all the members of the coalition, were proud to act in a just cause alongside their American comrades.”
The Queen received three standing ovations and was interrupted by applause several times during the address, which she ended with the words: “May God Bless America.”
04:47pm
Don’t miss Your Royal Appointment
In this morning’s Your Royal Appointment newsletter, Hannah Furness, our Royal Editor, revealed how the King and Queen managed to bring characteristic calm to a potentially difficult first day of their trip to the US.
You can receive her exclusive analysis of today’s events by signing up to her newsletter here.
04:39pm Analysis • Pictures
Analysis: Trump writes a love letter to Britain
My goodness does Donald Trump love the Royal family.
If anyone was in doubt about the special relationship, look no further than the president’s love letter to King and country, delivered on the south lawn of the White House just now.
The King is an “elegant, elegant man” with an accent he envies; the president’s late mother had a crush on him.
The compliments flowed, and the King looked delighted.
Whatever you think of Mr Trump, there is no doubting his abilities as a public speaker. Unpolished, part improvised, he leaves crowds giggling even at such a formal occasion.
The British government and the palace will be thrilled with that. Anyone who wants to make a case for monarchy need look no further.
Donald Trump wrote a ‘love letter’ to Britain in his speech on Tuesday, writes our Royal Editor Hannah Furness – AFP
04:28pm
‘No closer friends’ than US and Britain
Donald Trump repeatedly referred to the late Queen Elizabeth in his speech at the White House, while also remarking on the historic ties between Britain and the US.
Earlier in his speech, the US president referred to a tree that was planted by the late Queen in 1991.
“We see today a living symbol of this centuries-old bond, just a few dozen feet to the left,” he said, referring to the tree.
“Queen Elizabeth II – very, very special woman who is very greatly missed on both sides of that mighty Atlantic – long ago planted a young tree, was a very young and beautiful tree, and look at it now,” he said.
Since the US declaration of independence in 1776, “Americans have had no closer friends than the British”, he added.
The King listens as the president welcomes him to the White House – AP Photo/Alex Brandon
04:23pm Pictures
A touching moment between Trump and Melania
Donald and Melania Trump greet the King and Queen on the south lawn of the White House – AFP
04:19pm Pictures
Trump: My mother had a crush on Charles
Donald Trump is continuing with the gags, this time joking about how his mother “had a crush” on the King when he was a young prince.
“She loved the Royal Family, and she loved the Queen,” Mr Trump said of his mother.
“Any time the Queen was involved in a ceremony…my mother would be glued to the television.
“And she’d say, ‘look Donald, look how beautiful that is’. She really did love the family. I also remember her saying very clearly…‘Charles look, young Charles, he’s so cute.’
Mr Trump then turns to the King and mouths “my mother”, before adding: “My mother had a crush on Charles. Can you believe it?”
04:09pm
Trump: What a beautiful, British day this is
True to form, Donald Trump opens with a gag.
“What a beautiful, British day this is,” he says, referencing the weather and drawing laughs from the crowd.
The rain has finally stopped here, and his speech is underway.
“Melania, and I will never forget the spectacular honour your majesties showed us during our extraordinary visit to Windsor Castle last September,” the US president adds.
“Now it is our tremendous privilege to host you, and you’re going to have a wonderful short stay.”
Donald Trump leans in to speak to the King at the White House – AFP
04:01pm
Pictured: The King and Trump share a laugh
The King looks amused in conversation with the president – AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
03:56pm
King and Queen arrive
The King and Queen have just followed Donald and Melania Trump onto the south lawn of the White House.
Their appearance is quickly followed by a 21-gun salute and the national anthems of both countries, played by the US Marine Band.
Donald Trump and the King share a laugh during the monarch’s arrival on the south lawn of the White House – Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images
03:54pm
‘Ladies and gentlemen, the president of the United States’
Donald Trump smiles as he prepares to greet the King at the White House – AFP
03:46pm Pictures
All smiles as excitement builds for the King
President Trump’s cabinet have taken their seats beside the podium ahead of the King’s arrival.
Yvette Cooper, the Foreign Secretary, is shaking hands with senior administration officials, including Scott Bessent, the treasury secretary, Pete Hegseth, the defence secretary, and JD Vance, the vice president.
Other notable attendees include Steve Witkoff, the president’s special envoy, who would have been in Pakistan today if talks to end the war in Iran went ahead as planned.
Instead, he has taken a front row seat to watch this historic welcome and military ceremony.
Pete Hegseth, the defense secretary, and Scott Bessent, the treasury secretary, spot something at the White House – AFP
Marco Rubio, the US secretary of state, shakes the hand of Yvette Cooper, the Foreign Secretary, ahead of the King’s appearance – AFP
03:37pm
Pictured: Final preparations ahead of the King’s appearance
As we await the arrival of the King, Queen, president and first lady, a succession of gentlemen in sunglasses are frantically wiping down their seats with tea towels to get rid of the rain.
A crane, bizarrely, is swinging overhead carrying loads of building material. Is Trump hoping to get his ballroom finished by tonight?
The British entourage – senior palace aides and the Foreign Secretary – have just got out of a black minibus to take their own seats.
The show is about to start.
A US official dries seats where the King may be sitting during his official arrival ceremony at the White House – Getty Images North America
03:35pm Pictures
Our correspondent takes cover… for the second time this week
Among the crowd of journalists waiting to catch a glimpse of the King is our very own Chief Washington Correspondent, Connor Stringer.
With rain falling, Connor is ducking for cover – and not for the first time. Over the weekend, he was escorted to safety after a gunman allegedly attempted to assassinate Mr Trump at a correspondents’ dinner in Washington.
The Telegraph’s Chief Washington Correspondent waits to catch a glimpse of the King
03:20pm Pictures
US marine band in full flow at the White House
A performance by the US military marching band is under way at the White House, where we’re expecting to see the King and Queen greeted by Donald Trump very shortly.
Band members are banging their drums, playing trumpets and dancing on the south lawn as the Americans provide British guests with their own version of pomp and ceremony.
US marine corps marching band ahead of the King and Queen’s arrival at the White House – REUTERS
03:00pm Pictures
Pictured: King’s US visit gets rather… British
Things on the US state visit have become rather more British.
In scenes very familiar to the King and Queen, moments away from the military welcome ceremony, it has started raining.
The heavens have opened over Washington as the King and Queen kick off the second day of their state visit – Getty Images North America
Rain strikes ahead of the King’s arrival ceremony in Washington – Getty Images North America
02:48pm
Chaos as journalists fight for glimpse of the King
It’s chaos in the James Brady Briefing Room this morning as journalists from around the world fight for space to catch a glimpse of the King’s arrival.
Photographers are planning their spots. Reporters are harassing embassy staff for the last bits of detail.
The White House has controlled every step of this visit – bar the weather. The heavens have opened in the south lawn minutes before the King and President Trump are set to take to the stage.
The stage area is covered with a tarp in the rain before Donald Trump greets the King and Queen – AP
02:42pm Pictures • Analysis
Trump wishes he could host in the King in his new ballroom
Today is the day Donald Trump has looked forward to most.
Seven months on from his lavish banquet at Windsor Castle, he will get to host his own at the White House this evening.
But the size of the venue for tonight’s dinner has been a sore point for the president.
Blown away by the grandeur of Windsor Castle and the scale of the banquet in St. George’s Hall during his state visit to Britain in September, he sought to build his one ballroom for such occasions.
But while he waits for his masterpiece to be built, the First Lady has moved the state banquet to the East Room, which she and her husband, Mr Trump, thought would be more appropriate than the large tents usually erected on the south lawn for visiting leaders.
So tight is the space that Mrs Trump, who has led the planning, has been forced to cut the guest list, made up of big business leaders, media and sports stars, down to 120 people.
“It’s packed,” Mr Trump told The Telegraph in the Oval Office on Thursday, adding: “I tell you, if I had that ballroom, bet it would be filled.”
Donald Trump laughs with the King during a state banquet at Windsor Castle in September – Getty Images Europe
02:35pm
Trump: I’ve always wanted to live in Buckingham Palace
Donald Trump has said he has always wanted to live in Buckingham Palace as he prepares to greet the King and Queen for the second day of their state visit.
The US president shared an image of a newspaper article on social media which claims the King and Mr Trump are distant cousins.
Reacting to the article, Mr Trump said: “Wow, that’s nice. I’ve always wanted to live in Buckingham Palace!!! I’ll talk to the King and Queen about this in a few minutes!!! President DJT.”
Mr Trump is expected to greet the King and Queen on the south lawn of the White House in around an hour’s time for their official state arrival ceremony.
02:27pm Analysis • Pictures
Analysis: Today marks highest-pressure moment for the King
Good morning from Washington DC, where we are getting ready for the second day of the state visit.
Today is the centrepiece of the trip, and the highest-pressure moment for the King.
After a cosy start yesterday, over tea and beehives, the King, Queen, president and the first lady have had a bit of time to reinvigorate the friendship that means so much to Donald Trump.
Now it is on to the tough stuff.
The King and Donald Trump share a joke before drinking tea together at the White House on Monday – REUTERS
After a ceremonial military welcome this morning, the King will get down to business in a bilateral meeting with Mr Trump.
We aren’t supposed to know what they talk about, but we may hear bits and bobs later to gauge how it has gone.
Then he will be off to Congress for a major speech to the joint session. He is only the second British monarch allowed to speak there, following his mother Queen Elizabeth II.
This will be the King’s moment to make his mark on America.
Constitutionally, he is above politics. But this is political nonetheless: a moment for our head of state to deliver a clear message to America at its democratic heart.
Tonight, the King will speak again at the White House dinner, where guests in black tie will hear the King swap compliments and toasts with the president.
The UK-US relationship is in less-than-ideal condition.
Can the King move the dial at a moment when it really counts?
02:16pm
Welcome to our live coverage
Good afternoon and welcome to our live coverage as Donald Trump prepares to greet the King and Queen for the second day of their state visit.
The second day of their trip will kick off with a state arrival ceremony on the south lawn of the White House.
The King and Queen’s official welcome will involve both countries’ national anthems being played by the US marine band, before a 21-gun salute, a military escort and review of the corps.
Later today, the King and Mr Trump will hold a bilateral meeting behind closed doors in the Oval Office.
This evening, the King is expected to call on the United States and Britain to “come together” even when they do not agree, in a rare speech to Congress.
Stay tuned for all the latest news and analysis brought to you by our correspondents, including Hannah Furness, our Royal Editor in Washington, DC.