Senior members of the British royal family are set to visit the United States in 2026, aiming to strengthen the “special relationship” with President Donald Trump.
At a Glance
- King Charles, Queen Camilla, and other senior royals plan to visit the US in 2026
- The visit aims to reinforce the US-UK “special relationship” with President Trump
- Trump has shown a strong affinity for the royal family
- The royal tour is seen as a strategic use of soft power
Royal Visit to Strengthen US-UK Ties
In a strategic move to reinforce the longstanding alliance between the United States and the United Kingdom, senior members of the British royal family are planning a visit to the US following Donald Trump’s inauguration as the 47th US president. The high-profile visit, likely to occur in 2026, will feature King Charles, Queen Camilla, and other prominent royals.
The primary objective of this royal tour is to strengthen the “special relationship” between the two nations, a term that underscores the unique diplomatic bond shared by the US and UK. This visit is particularly significant given Trump’s known admiration for the British monarchy.
Donald Trump’s positive relationship with the British royal family is well-documented. He enjoyed a cordial relationship with the late Queen Elizabeth II and recently met with Prince William. This existing rapport provides a solid foundation for the upcoming royal visit.
“Donald Trump has a clear affinity for the royal family,” a senior UK government source said. “He had a great relationship with the late Queen, recently met Prince William and has spoken highly of King Charles. A royal tour to the US would help reinforce the ‘special relationship’.”
Trump’s own words further illustrate this connection. Following his meeting with Prince William, Trump stated, “I had a great talk with the prince.” This positive interaction bodes well for the planned royal visit and its potential to strengthen bilateral ties.
Strategic Use of Soft Power
The royal visit is being viewed as a strategic deployment of the UK’s soft power. By aligning with Trump’s favorable stance towards monarchy, the British government aims to leverage this diplomatic opportunity to its fullest potential.
“Playing up to his pro-monarchist tendencies is one of a number of important ways we can exert our soft power,” another insider explained. “You saw that during his first administration and can expect to see it again.”
British politicians have long leaned on the Royal Family to influence foreign leaders, using the prestige of British history and power without leaning too heavily on political matters.
As preparations for the 2026 royal visit continue, both US and UK officials are working to maximize its diplomatic impact. The visit is anticipated to focus on shared goals and values, reinforcing the historical ties between the two countries. With careful planning and execution, this royal tour has the potential to usher in a new era of strengthened US-UK relations under President Trump’s administration.
