Bullish Donald Trump is anticipated to react strongly if King Charles decides to cancel his scheduled US state visit. Reports suggest that the 79-year-old US President would attribute the cancellation to Keir Starmer, whom he recently criticized as not being comparable to Winston Churchill. The relationship between the two leaders has soured following the British government’s initial refusal to grant US access to RAF bases for potential strikes on Iran.
Speculations indicate that Trump would openly criticize Starmer if King Charles’ state visit is called off. Pressure has been mounting on the monarch to reconsider the plans after Trump’s aggressive remarks towards the UK. However, a source involved in organizing the visit in Washington DC mentioned to The Independent that Trump would be furious if the visit is scrapped.
Washington’s ambassador to the UK, Warren Stephens, cautioned against reversing the visit plans, emphasizing that it could be a significant trip for Charles. Meanwhile, an expert suggested that Trump, known to be a personal friend of the monarch, would not disrespect King Charles. Historian Andrew Lownie urged Charles to proceed with the visit, highlighting the potential influence he could have on Trump, including persuading him to release unredacted Jeffrey Epstein files.
Despite efforts from authorities and politicians like Thames Valley Police and the Metropolitan Police, the push for the US to disclose these documents has faced obstacles. The visit, overshadowed by the Iran conflict and Trump’s criticisms of Starmer, has sparked debates among political figures regarding its appropriateness amid the current global scenario.
Chair of the Foreign Affairs Select Committee, Dame Emily Thornberry, expressed concerns about the timing of the visit, stating that it would occur amidst a war, posing challenges for its execution.
