King Charles and Queen Camilla arrived in the United States this week, where they were welcomed at the White House by President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump. However, criticism arose over the President’s greeting etiquette towards the Royals.
Observers quickly pointed out what they deemed as “disrespectful behavior” during the initial interactions. A video shared by the Office of the First Lady captured the moment when President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump greeted King Charles III and Queen Camilla at the South Portico of the White House on April 27, 2026.
Notably, viewers highlighted President Trump’s reportedly “aggressive handshake” and his physical contact with Queen Camilla’s arm, leading to divided opinions. While some defended the actions as “helpful gestures,” others raised concerns over the breach of royal protocol, citing that touching a King or Queen is strictly prohibited in British Royal Protocol, where only a handshake is deemed appropriate if initiated by them.
Despite the mixed reactions, some onlookers praised the warm reception the Royals received at the White House, acknowledging the significance of the visit in honoring the longstanding alliance between the US and the UK. King Charles III and Queen Camilla’s visit marks the first British state visit to the US since Queen Elizabeth II’s trip in 2007, symbolizing the efforts to strengthen the bond between the two nations.
