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President Donald Trump, left, and King Charles III depart an arrival ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)

President Donald Trump and Britain’s King Charles III, stand together during a State Visit arrival ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein)

President Donald Trump speaks while Britain’s Queen Camilla, left, and King Charles III, right, listen during an arrival ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)

Britain’s King Charles III listens as President Donald Trump speaks during a State Visit arrival ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

President Donald Trump toasts with Britain’s King Charles III during a State Dinner with Queen Camilla and first lady Melania Trump in the East Room of the White House State Dinner Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump with Britain’s King Charles III and Queen Camilla after posing for a photo at the Grand Staircase in the Grand Foyer of the White House during a State Dinner Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

A table setting is seen as Britain’s King Charles III speaks during a State Dinner with President Donald Trump, first lady Melania Trump and Queen Camilla in the East Room of the White House State Dinner Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

President Donald Trump speaks during an arrival ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)

President Donald Trump and Britain’s King Charles III laugh together while Queen Camilla, left, and first lady Melania Trump, right, watch an arrival ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)

Guests wave flags as they arrive to watch President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump greet Britain’s King Charles III and Queen Camilla during a State Visit arrival ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein)

Britain’s King Charles III, left, and President Donald Trump, right, speak as troops march past during a State Visit arrival ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)

Secretary of State Marco Rubio, from left, second lady Usha Vance and Vice President JD Vance arrive with others at an arrival ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)

Guests arrive in the rain before President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump greet Britain’s King Charles III and Queen Camilla during a State Visit arrival ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

Staff dry off chairs ahead of a State Visit arrival ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)

Members of the United States and British delegations use umbrellas at an arrival ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)

First lady Melania Trump and Queen Camilla, during a State Visit arrival ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein)

Britain’s King Charles III and Queen Camilla arrive at the South Portico of the White House for a State Dinner with President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

President Donald Trump watches as Britain’s King Charles III greets Vice President JD Vance during a State Visit arrival ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

President Donald Trump greets Britain’s King Charles III at the South Portico of the White House for a State Dinner Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump stand on the Blue Room Balcony with Britain’s King Charles III and Queen Camilla as plane fly over during a State Visit arrival ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

Queen Camilla, King Charles III, President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump watch as the United States Army Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps perform during an arrival ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)

Girls smile as first lady Melania Trump and Britain’s Queen Camilla attend a cultural education event at the White House Tennis Pavilion on the South Lawn of the White House in Washington, Tuesday, April 28, 2026. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin)

President Donald Trump and Britain’s King Charles III walk onto the West Colonnade from the Rose Garden as they head to the Oval Office at White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington, during a State Visit. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

Speaker of the House Mike Johnson, R-La., left and Britain’s King Charles III walk through Statuary Hall, en route to King Charles III’s address to a joint meeting of Congress in the House Chamber at the U.S. Capitol, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Rod Lamkey, Jr.)

Britain’s King Charles III and Queen Camilla depart after speaking to a joint meeting of Congress in the House Chamber at the U.S. Capitol, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)

Britain’s King Charles III speaks to a joint meeting of Congress in the House Chamber at the U.S. Capitol, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Pablo Martinez Monsivais)

Britain’s King Charles III speaks to a joint meeting of Congress in the House Chamber at the U.S. Capitol, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington, as Vice President JD Vance and House Speaker Mike Johnson of La., listen. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)

President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump greet Britain’s King Charles III and Queen Camilla at the South Portico of the White House as they arrive for a State Dinner Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

Britain’s King Charles III and Queen Camilla pose for a photo outside of the British Embassy, Monday, April 27, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson, Pool)

President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump along with Britain’s King Charles III and Queen Camilla walk on the South Lawn to visit the White House garden and bee hive at the White House, Monday, April 27, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon, Pool)

First lady Melania Trump and Britain’s King Charles III talk during a tour of the White House garden and bee hive on the South Lawn of the White House, Monday, April 27, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon, Pool)

Britain’s King Charles III and British Ambassador to the U.S. Christian Turner, right, attend a garden party at the British Embassy, Monday, April 27, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson, Pool)

Britain’s Queen Camilla speaks with guests during a garden party at the British Embassy, Monday, April 27, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson, Pool)

A staff member places tags for Britain’s King Charles III and President Donald Trump on the red carpet before the arrival of the Britain’s King Charles III and Queen Camilla at the White House, Monday, April 27, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein)

President Donald Trump, from left, King Charles III, first lady Melania Trump and Queen Camilla stand for the national anthems of their respective countries during an arrival ceremony among others on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)

President Donald Trump, left, and King Charles III depart an arrival ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)

President Donald Trump, left, and King Charles III depart an arrival ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)

President Donald Trump and Britain’s King Charles III, stand together during a State Visit arrival ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein)

President Donald Trump and Britain’s King Charles III, stand together during a State Visit arrival ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein)

President Donald Trump speaks while Britain’s Queen Camilla, left, and King Charles III, right, listen during an arrival ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)

President Donald Trump speaks while Britain’s Queen Camilla, left, and King Charles III, right, listen during an arrival ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)

Britain’s King Charles III listens as President Donald Trump speaks during a State Visit arrival ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

Britain’s King Charles III listens as President Donald Trump speaks during a State Visit arrival ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

President Donald Trump toasts with Britain’s King Charles III during a State Dinner with Queen Camilla and first lady Melania Trump in the East Room of the White House State Dinner Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

President Donald Trump toasts with Britain’s King Charles III during a State Dinner with Queen Camilla and first lady Melania Trump in the East Room of the White House State Dinner Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump with Britain’s King Charles III and Queen Camilla after posing for a photo at the Grand Staircase in the Grand Foyer of the White House during a State Dinner Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump with Britain’s King Charles III and Queen Camilla after posing for a photo at the Grand Staircase in the Grand Foyer of the White House during a State Dinner Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

A table setting is seen as Britain’s King Charles III speaks during a State Dinner with President Donald Trump, first lady Melania Trump and Queen Camilla in the East Room of the White House State Dinner Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

A table setting is seen as Britain’s King Charles III speaks during a State Dinner with President Donald Trump, first lady Melania Trump and Queen Camilla in the East Room of the White House State Dinner Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

President Donald Trump speaks during an arrival ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)

President Donald Trump speaks during an arrival ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)

President Donald Trump and Britain’s King Charles III laugh together while Queen Camilla, left, and first lady Melania Trump, right, watch an arrival ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)

President Donald Trump and Britain’s King Charles III laugh together while Queen Camilla, left, and first lady Melania Trump, right, watch an arrival ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)

Guests wave flags as they arrive to watch President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump greet Britain’s King Charles III and Queen Camilla during a State Visit arrival ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein)

Guests wave flags as they arrive to watch President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump greet Britain’s King Charles III and Queen Camilla during a State Visit arrival ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein)

Britain’s King Charles III, left, and President Donald Trump, right, speak as troops march past during a State Visit arrival ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)

Britain’s King Charles III, left, and President Donald Trump, right, speak as troops march past during a State Visit arrival ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)

Secretary of State Marco Rubio, from left, second lady Usha Vance and Vice President JD Vance arrive with others at an arrival ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)

Secretary of State Marco Rubio, from left, second lady Usha Vance and Vice President JD Vance arrive with others at an arrival ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)

Guests arrive in the rain before President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump greet Britain’s King Charles III and Queen Camilla during a State Visit arrival ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

Guests arrive in the rain before President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump greet Britain’s King Charles III and Queen Camilla during a State Visit arrival ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

Staff dry off chairs ahead of a State Visit arrival ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)

Staff dry off chairs ahead of a State Visit arrival ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)

Members of the United States and British delegations use umbrellas at an arrival ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)

Members of the United States and British delegations use umbrellas at an arrival ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)

First lady Melania Trump and Queen Camilla, during a State Visit arrival ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein)

First lady Melania Trump and Queen Camilla, during a State Visit arrival ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein)

Britain’s King Charles III and Queen Camilla arrive at the South Portico of the White House for a State Dinner with President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

Britain’s King Charles III and Queen Camilla arrive at the South Portico of the White House for a State Dinner with President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

President Donald Trump watches as Britain’s King Charles III greets Vice President JD Vance during a State Visit arrival ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

President Donald Trump watches as Britain’s King Charles III greets Vice President JD Vance during a State Visit arrival ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

President Donald Trump greets Britain’s King Charles III at the South Portico of the White House for a State Dinner Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

President Donald Trump greets Britain’s King Charles III at the South Portico of the White House for a State Dinner Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump stand on the Blue Room Balcony with Britain’s King Charles III and Queen Camilla as plane fly over during a State Visit arrival ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump stand on the Blue Room Balcony with Britain’s King Charles III and Queen Camilla as plane fly over during a State Visit arrival ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

Queen Camilla, King Charles III, President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump watch as the United States Army Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps perform during an arrival ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)

Queen Camilla, King Charles III, President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump watch as the United States Army Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps perform during an arrival ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)

Girls smile as first lady Melania Trump and Britain’s Queen Camilla attend a cultural education event at the White House Tennis Pavilion on the South Lawn of the White House in Washington, Tuesday, April 28, 2026. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin)

Girls smile as first lady Melania Trump and Britain’s Queen Camilla attend a cultural education event at the White House Tennis Pavilion on the South Lawn of the White House in Washington, Tuesday, April 28, 2026. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin)

President Donald Trump and Britain’s King Charles III walk onto the West Colonnade from the Rose Garden as they head to the Oval Office at White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington, during a State Visit. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

President Donald Trump and Britain’s King Charles III walk onto the West Colonnade from the Rose Garden as they head to the Oval Office at White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington, during a State Visit. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

Speaker of the House Mike Johnson, R-La., left and Britain’s King Charles III walk through Statuary Hall, en route to King Charles III’s address to a joint meeting of Congress in the House Chamber at the U.S. Capitol, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Rod Lamkey, Jr.)

Speaker of the House Mike Johnson, R-La., left and Britain’s King Charles III walk through Statuary Hall, en route to King Charles III’s address to a joint meeting of Congress in the House Chamber at the U.S. Capitol, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Rod Lamkey, Jr.)

Britain’s King Charles III and Queen Camilla depart after speaking to a joint meeting of Congress in the House Chamber at the U.S. Capitol, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)

Britain’s King Charles III and Queen Camilla depart after speaking to a joint meeting of Congress in the House Chamber at the U.S. Capitol, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)

Britain’s King Charles III speaks to a joint meeting of Congress in the House Chamber at the U.S. Capitol, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Pablo Martinez Monsivais)

Britain’s King Charles III speaks to a joint meeting of Congress in the House Chamber at the U.S. Capitol, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Pablo Martinez Monsivais)

Britain’s King Charles III speaks to a joint meeting of Congress in the House Chamber at the U.S. Capitol, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington, as Vice President JD Vance and House Speaker Mike Johnson of La., listen. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)

Britain’s King Charles III speaks to a joint meeting of Congress in the House Chamber at the U.S. Capitol, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington, as Vice President JD Vance and House Speaker Mike Johnson of La., listen. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)

President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump greet Britain’s King Charles III and Queen Camilla at the South Portico of the White House as they arrive for a State Dinner Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump greet Britain’s King Charles III and Queen Camilla at the South Portico of the White House as they arrive for a State Dinner Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

Britain’s King Charles III and Queen Camilla pose for a photo outside of the British Embassy, Monday, April 27, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson, Pool)

Britain’s King Charles III and Queen Camilla pose for a photo outside of the British Embassy, Monday, April 27, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson, Pool)

President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump along with Britain’s King Charles III and Queen Camilla walk on the South Lawn to visit the White House garden and bee hive at the White House, Monday, April 27, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon, Pool)

President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump along with Britain’s King Charles III and Queen Camilla walk on the South Lawn to visit the White House garden and bee hive at the White House, Monday, April 27, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon, Pool)

First lady Melania Trump and Britain’s King Charles III talk during a tour of the White House garden and bee hive on the South Lawn of the White House, Monday, April 27, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon, Pool)

First lady Melania Trump and Britain’s King Charles III talk during a tour of the White House garden and bee hive on the South Lawn of the White House, Monday, April 27, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon, Pool)

Britain’s King Charles III and British Ambassador to the U.S. Christian Turner, right, attend a garden party at the British Embassy, Monday, April 27, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson, Pool)

Britain’s King Charles III and British Ambassador to the U.S. Christian Turner, right, attend a garden party at the British Embassy, Monday, April 27, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson, Pool)

Britain’s Queen Camilla speaks with guests during a garden party at the British Embassy, Monday, April 27, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson, Pool)

Britain’s Queen Camilla speaks with guests during a garden party at the British Embassy, Monday, April 27, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson, Pool)

A staff member places tags for Britain’s King Charles III and President Donald Trump on the red carpet before the arrival of the Britain’s King Charles III and Queen Camilla at the White House, Monday, April 27, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein)

A staff member places tags for Britain’s King Charles III and President Donald Trump on the red carpet before the arrival of the Britain’s King Charles III and Queen Camilla at the White House, Monday, April 27, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein)

President Donald Trump, from left, King Charles III, first lady Melania Trump and Queen Camilla stand for the national anthems of their respective countries during an arrival ceremony among others on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)

President Donald Trump, from left, King Charles III, first lady Melania Trump and Queen Camilla stand for the national anthems of their respective countries during an arrival ceremony among others on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)

Notable business and finance leaders whose firms are affected by record-high oil prices brought on by the U.S.-Israel war in Iran also had a seat at the table, Tuesday evening.

Brendan Nelson, president of Boeing Global, Meg O’Neill, CEO of BP and Brian Sikes, CEO of Cargill, the multinational food company, were on the guest list.

In addition, finance executives John F. W. Rogers, executive vice president of Goldman Sachs, and C.S. Venkatakrishnan, CEO of Barclays, were there.

The white-tie dinner was held in the East Room, which first lady Melania Trump arranged with two very long tables and a smaller head table along the north wall that formed a U-shape to seat the nearly 130 guests. The room was dimly lit, illuminated mostly by large chandeliers and faux candles in between low floral arrangements on the tables.

Trump and the first lady and Charles and the queen entered from the hallway known as the Cross Hall. Guests listened — and laughed — through the toasts delivered by the president and the king.

While talking about the “unconquerable courage” shared by the U.S. and the United Kingdom, Trump paused to give kudos to golf superstar Rory McIlroy, who became a back-to-back Masters champion this month.

“That was unconquerable courage,” said Trump, an avid golfer. “That was a tough one. Congratulations — very proud of you.”

Also present from the sports world was Robert Kraft, owner of the New England Patriots.

Last year’s dinner for the crown prince of Saudi Arabia brought sports superstars, including Cristiano Ronaldo, FIFA President Gianni Infantino, and golfer Bryson DeChambeau.

The king noted “moments of difficulty” between the two nations, including in 1957, when his mother visited to “help put the ‘special’ back into our relationship after a crisis in the Middle East.”

He also talked about the first time he met an American president — Dwight Eisenhower — describing how America had “helped rebuild a shattered continent” after World War II and was a “defender of freedom” in Europe.

“Freedom is again under attack following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine,” Charles said.

The construction of the White House ballroom did not escape King Charles III’s notice.

He poked fun at the project in his speech at the state dinner Tuesday night, saying that he “cannot help noticing the readjustments to the East Wing.” The president had the East Wing demolished in October to make way for his $400 million ballroom.

The monarch also poked fun at the British role in remaking the White House during the War of 1812.

“I’m sorry to say that we British, of course, made our own small attempt at real estate redevelopment of the White House in 1814,” Charles said to laughter.

Britain’s King Charles III and President Donald Trump talk after toasts during a State Dinner with first lady Melania Trump and Queen Camilla in the East Room of the White House State Dinner Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

Britain’s King Charles III and President Donald Trump talk after toasts during a State Dinner with first lady Melania Trump and Queen Camilla in the East Room of the White House State Dinner Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

“My thoughts and sympathies are very much with you, the first lady and all those guests, for whom this must have been a very upsetting incident,” Charles said during his speech to dinner guests, referencing the shooting at the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner Saturday evening, which was attended by President Trump.

“As the words of that famous anthem remind us,” he said, “This is the land of the free and home of the brave.” The man who authorities say tried to storm the dinner with guns and knives was charged Monday with the attempted assassination of the president.

“Our war of independence was fought not to reject this heritage, but to reclaim it and perfect it,” Trump said, describing America’s founding. “Even though the political bonds between the United States and Great Britain were dissolved — forever, they thought, on July 4, 1776 — the more powerful strands of memory, culture and identity proved unbreakable in any conflict and grew into a friendship unlike any other on earth,” he said.

Trump started his remarks at the State Dinner by recalling his state visit to the United Kingdom last year to Windsor Castle, “a structure that’s so beautiful and so long that it never seemed to end. I looked down as a former real estate person, and it just went on forever,” Trump said, to laughter.

Ten guests came from Fox News and other conservative media outlets aligned with Trump. The list included Fox News hosts Bret Baier, Maria Bartiromo, Rachel Campos-Duffy, Ainsley Earhardt, Greg Gutfield, Laura Ingraham and Jesse Watters.

Also on the list were Suzanne Scott, CEO of Fox News; Christopher Ruddy, CEO of Newsmax; and Keith Poole, editor-in-chief of The New York Post

Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh arrives before President Donald Trump speaks during a State Dinner with Britain’s King Charles III, Queen Camilla and first lady Melania Trump in the East Room of the White House State Dinner Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh arrives before President Donald Trump speaks during a State Dinner with Britain’s King Charles III, Queen Camilla and first lady Melania Trump in the East Room of the White House State Dinner Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

The conservative justices on the U.S. Supreme Court — Chief Justice John Roberts and Justices Samuel Alito, Neil Gorsuch, Brett Kavanaugh, Amy Coney Barrett, and Clarence Thomas — were on the official guest list. Notably, none of the three liberal-leaning justices were listed as being in attendance. It is unclear whether they received invitations.

The justice’s appearance at the formal affair is notable, since Trump attacked several members of the court in February after six justices voted to strike down Trump’s signature economic policy — global tariffs imposed under an emergency powers law. Trump called Gorsuch and Coney Barrett an “embarrassment to their families.”

President Donald Trump speaks during a State Dinner with Britain’s King Charles III, Queen Camilla and first lady Melania Trump in the East Room of the White House State Dinner Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

President Donald Trump speaks during a State Dinner with Britain’s King Charles III, Queen Camilla and first lady Melania Trump in the East Room of the White House State Dinner Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

The Trump family is heavily represented at the state dinner with King Charles III and Queen Camilla.

Three of the president’s five children are in attendance with their spouses: Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner; Eric and Lara Trump; and Tiffany Trump and Michael Boulos. Trump’s father-in-law, Viktor Knavs, was also present.

The queen also had a couple of family members at the event. Her son-in-law, Harry Lopes, the CEO of Eden Renewables, attended the dinner, as did Otis Irwin, the queen’s grandnephew who runs track at Yale. He told Vanity Fair that he traveled down to Washington from New Haven, Connecticut, after getting

The monarch met with Apple CEO Tim Cook, Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff, Advanced Micro Devices CEO Lisa Su and NVIDIA President and CEO Jensen Huang on Tuesday afternoon. The tech leaders are expected to be guests at the dinner.

Benioff, Su, Cook and Huang were all at a White House formal dinner last November honoring the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia Mohammed bin Salman.

As the royals arrived for the state dinner, the president revealed he enjoyed Charles’ speech to Congress.

“He made a great speech. I was very jealous,” Trump said about Charles during a photo op outside the White House.

President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump greet Britain’s King Charles III and Queen Camilla at the South Portico of the White House as they arrive for a State Dinner Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

First lady Melania Trump stands at the South Portico of the White House as they arrive for a State Dinner Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

Britain’s King Charles III and Queen Camilla follow President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump down the Grand Staircase in the Grand Foyer of the White House during a State Dinner Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump greet Britain’s King Charles III and Queen Camilla at the South Portico of the White House as they arrive for a State Dinner Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump greet Britain’s King Charles III and Queen Camilla at the South Portico of the White House as they arrive for a State Dinner Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

First lady Melania Trump stands at the South Portico of the White House as they arrive for a State Dinner Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

First lady Melania Trump stands at the South Portico of the White House as they arrive for a State Dinner Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

Britain’s King Charles III and Queen Camilla follow President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump down the Grand Staircase in the Grand Foyer of the White House during a State Dinner Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

Britain’s King Charles III and Queen Camilla follow President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump down the Grand Staircase in the Grand Foyer of the White House during a State Dinner Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

First lady Melania Trump donned head-to-toe Christian Dior, in a pale delphinium pink silk strapless gown from the designer’s haute couture collection, with off-white suede gloves and pale delphinium silk pumps.

Britain’s Queen Camilla wore a deep pink Fiona Clare evening gown with the family jewels — an amethyst and diamond necklace gifted by a former Duchess of Kent to Queen Victoria.

State dinner guests will be served a four course meal, which includes a velouté sauce with crisp toasted shallots, spring herbed ravioli made with herbs from the White House kitchen garden, and a classic dover sole meunière, which is a seared fish.

For dessert, guests will be served a beehive-shaped chocolate confectionary with crème fraîche ice cream and honey from the White House beehive. The dessert is a nod to the king and queen, who are avid supporters of beekeeping.

The large format commemorative coin, made to mark America’s 250th birthday, was produced by the Royal Mint. It includes King Charles III on one side and an American eagle on the other.

Around the edge, the coin records the succession of American Presidents and British Monarchs since 1776.

The British embassy in Washington described the coin’s design as “reinforcing a story of continuity, shared history and enduring ties across generations” of the two nations.

The King made no direct mention of the convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, but he did reference the UK and United States’ “collective strength” to “support victims of some of the ills that, so tragically, exist in both our societies today.”

It was unclear if the carefully-worded remarks were meant to be an oblique acknowledgement of sexual abuse victims in the wake of the Epstein scandal.

U.S. Rep. Ro Khanna had said ahead of the speech he was told by the British ambassador that that the king would speak to Epstein in his remarks before Congress.

In February, the monarch’s brother, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, was arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office connected to his close relationship with Epstein.

Charles, at the time of his brother’s arrest, issued a statement expressing his “deepest concern” about the matter, but declined further comment while the legal process continues.

Britain’s King Charles III speaks to a joint meeting of Congress in the House Chamber at the U.S. Capitol, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington, as Vice President JD Vance and House Speaker Mike Johnson of La., listen. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)

Britain’s King Charles III speaks to a joint meeting of Congress in the House Chamber at the U.S. Capitol, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington, as Vice President JD Vance and House Speaker Mike Johnson of La., listen. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)

The monarch reminded the audience that the only time that the NATO military alliance’s collective defense has been invoked was after the Sept. 11 attacks on the United States.

“Today, Mr. Speaker, that same, unyielding resolve is needed for the defense of Ukraine and her most courageous people. It is needed in order to secure a truly just and lasting peace,” King Charles III told the lawmakers and other dignitaries in the chamber.

The reminder seemed a subtle defense of the transatlantic military alliance that Trump has soured on and repeatedly threatened to pull the U.S. out of.

“We do not embark on these remarkable endeavors together out of sentiment,” he said. “We do so because they build greater shared resilience for the future, so making our citizens safer for generations to come.”

The call on the allies to continue work on their alliance comes as differences over the Iran war tests the relationship, perhaps the lowest point in the so-called “special relationship” since the 1956 Suez Crisis, when the U.S. opposed Britain’s attempt to seize the Suez Canal.

Charles then went on to quote British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who Trump has sharply criticized for Britain’s refusal to provide greater support to the U.S. and Israel in its war against Iran.

“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,” Charles added.

Charles nodded to what law enforcement authorities say was an attempt to assassinate Trump over the weekend when he attended a dinner with members of the White House press corps.

“We meet, too, in the aftermath of the incident not far from this great building that sought to harm the leadership of your Nation and to foment wider fear and discord,” he said. “Let me say with unshakeable resolve: such acts of violence will never succeed.”

Trump was on stage at the head table at Saturday’s dinner when Secret Service personnel apprehended a man armed with a gun after he broke through a security checkpoint.

Britain’s King Charles III speaks to a joint meeting of Congress in the House Chamber at the U.S. Capitol, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

Britain’s King Charles III speaks to a joint meeting of Congress in the House Chamber at the U.S. Capitol, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

King Charles III received an extended standing ovation from members of Congress when he walked into the House chamber, with many lawmakers filming his entrance on their phones or taking selfies.

It’s an unusual display of unity in the chamber — very different from the annual State of the Union, when half of the room is usually clapping and the other sitting down.

King Charles III acknowledged “times of great uncertainty” as he expressed gratitude to the American people and marked the 250th anniversary of independence from Britain in a speech to the U.S. Congress that highlighted the bonds between the two countries at a time of political turmoil.

“For all that time,” Charles said, “our destinies have been interlinked.”

Charles is only the second British monarch to address a joint session of Congress. His mother, Queen Elizabeth II, delivered a similar speech in 1991 highlighting the historic ties between both countries and the importance of their democratic values.

King Charles III will be accompanied by an “escort committee” of lawmakers when he enters the chamber to address Congress. That includes leadership from both parties and other members chosen for the occasion.

Also in attendance at the speech are members of President Donald Trump’s Cabinet, military leaders, select ambassadors and former Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer.

As is customary for any joint address, the Senate walked across the Capitol and filed into the House chamber together, taking seats in the front of the room.

Military leaders were also in attendance, sitting near the rostrum where the king will speak. Lawmakers mingled across the aisle as they prepared to greet the king, a rare bipartisan moment amid the usual tensions in the Capitol.

Speaker of the House Mike Johnson, R-La., left and Britain’s King Charles III walk through Statuary Hall, en route to King Charles III’s address to a joint meeting of Congress in the House Chamber at the U.S. Capitol, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Rod Lamkey, Jr.)

Speaker of the House Mike Johnson, R-La., left and Britain’s King Charles III walk through Statuary Hall, en route to King Charles III’s address to a joint meeting of Congress in the House Chamber at the U.S. Capitol, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Rod Lamkey, Jr.)

House Speaker Mike Johnson walked through the Capitol with the king and escorted him to a reception room just outside the House chamber where he will address a joint session of Congress at 3 p.m.

The two then met with other congressional leaders, including Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., and House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y.

Johnson engaged in friendly conversation with the king at the beginning of the meeting, where he appeared to be explaining something to him.

With a background in casinos, hotels and golf clubs, Trump seemed to enjoy hosting King Charles III at the White House.

The president often reverts to his hospitality sector roots when VIPs visit, whether they’re championship sports teams, business titans or foreign leaders that merit some pomp.

Trump guided the British monarch along the White House South Lawn to inspect the honor guard formations. His speech was all charm, as he called the king “very elegant.” And in what was supposed to be a private moment, Trump and his wife, Melania, escorted the king and Queen Camilla to an awaiting BMW just outside the Oval Office.

The queen showed her appreciation by politely waving her hand before the sedan departed, with Trump giving his signature thumbs up as it moved along. Construction of the White House ballroom continued during the visit, a sign of Trump’s ambitions as a host going forward.

U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s former chief of staff said Tuesday that he made a “serious mistake” by recommending Peter Mandelson be made U.K. ambassador to the United States, but denied interfering with the appointment process.

While King Charles visits the White House, back in the U.K. the news headlines are dominated by the continuing fallout over Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s decision to appoint the scandal-tainted politician Peter Mandelson as ambassador to Washington.

British lawmakers are debating Tuesday whether Starmer should face a parliamentary probe on whether the right procedures were followed in the appointment of Mandelson, a friend of Jeffrey Epstein.

Starmer fired Mandelson in September, but the relentless questions over his judgment has left the prime minister fighting for his job.

The first lady took on the project of refurbishing the White House tennis courts during Trump’s first term, building a pavilion inspired by the East and West Wings to replace a smaller structure.

Planning for the project -- which was paid for by private donations -- began in early 2018, followed by approval in June 2019 by the Commission of Fine Arts and the National Capital Planning Commission.

President Donald Trump and Britain’s King Charles III meet in the Oval Office of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington, during a State Visit. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

President Donald Trump and Britain’s King Charles III meet in the Oval Office of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington, during a State Visit. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

Trump said the meeting with Charles was “really good” and said the king is a “fantastic person.”

The president has made a habit during his second term of turning Oval Office meetings with foreign officials into freewheeling events full of criticism about how leaders are managing their national affairs.

But Tuesday’s Oval Office meeting was held largely out of public view, reducing the potential of such an exchange with the king.

Several survivors of sexual abuse from Jeffrey Epstein spoke at the Capitol ahead of an address from King Charles III on Tuesday afternoon.

They called for further legislation to protect victims of sex trafficking and a deeper acknowledgement from those in power.

Sky Roberts, the brother of the late Virginia Giuffre who was a prominent abuse survivor, said that survivors are “still fighting to be heard, still pushing for real accountability, while many of the powerful connected to these systems remain just out of reach, unable to acknowledge survivors face to face.”

First lady Melania Trump, center right, and Britain’s Queen Camilla attend a cultural education event at the White House Tennis Pavilion on the South Lawn of the White House in Washington, Tuesday, April 28, 2026. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin)

First lady Melania Trump, center right, and Britain’s Queen Camilla attend a cultural education event at the White House Tennis Pavilion on the South Lawn of the White House in Washington, Tuesday, April 28, 2026. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin)

The queen and the first lady joined students at the tennis pavilion of the White House. The students looked at a World War II map, a portrait of President John Adams, and a letter from Queen Elizabeth II to President Dwight Eisenhower with AI-enabled glasses and headsets -- an exercise the first lady’s office said explored the history of the bilateral relationship.

Melania Trump has made artificial intelligence part of her portfolio of issues.

Later on, the king was slated to meet a group of chief executives from the technology sector to talk about investments, according to his schedule. Nvidia founder and CEO Jensen Huang was spotted among the guests for the official arrival ceremony.

The king’s speech to Congress will likely mark his most extensive public remarks during his four-day visit to the U.S.

He’s expected to address the Saturday shooting at the White House Correspondents’ Association Dinner in a sign of solidarity and support.

He will also acknowledge tensions that have surfaced between Trump and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, noting that the two countries have not always agreed but “have always found ways to come together.”

King Charles III is expected to acknowledge the survivors of abuse from Jeffrey Epstein when he speaks to Congress on Tuesday afternoon, but declined to meet with survivors of his abuse, according to Rep. Ro Khanna, a California Democrat who has been a leader of the charge on Capitol Hill for a reckoning over Epstein.

Khanna had pushed for the king to meet with the survivors during his visit, but said that he was told by the British ambassador to the U.S, that instead there would be an acknowledgement of the survivors.

Allegations of sexual abuse had roiled the British royal family, and King Charles eventually stripped his brother, the former Prince Andrew, of his royal titles and privileges over his links to Epstein.

“I thought it would have been a incredible moment and statement to show that it doesn’t matter how much wealth you have, how much power you have, no human being is dispensable and the survivors deserve justice.”

As King Charles III celebrates the transatlantic relationship, Britain’s ambassador in Washington has appeared to downplay the uniqueness of the so-called “special relationship” in leaked comments.

Ambassador Christian Turner told a group of British students that “I think there is probably one country that has a special relationship with the United States — and that is probably Israel.”

He said, though, that the U.K. and the U.S. share “a deep history and affinity,” and that “particularly on our defense and security, we are intertwined.”

A recording of the comments was published Tuesday by the Financial Times, which said they were made in February.

Turner also called it “extraordinary” that scandals around Jeffrey Epstein had brought down a member of the royal family and senior officials in Britain – and could yet topple Prime Minister Keir Starmer – “and yet here in the U.S., it really hasn’t touched anybody.”

The Foreign Office said “these were private, informal comments” and “certainly not any reflection of the U.K. government’s position.”

Trump said he wanted to be there for the first address to a joint meeting of Congress by a British king, but he’ll stay behind and watch instead.

“I was thinking of going, but they said, I don’t know, that might be a step too far. I would love to go. It’s not supposed to be protocol, but I would love to be with you,” Trump said during his own speech at the welcome ceremony for Charles and Camilla.

Part of the king’s mission on this state visit is to try to mend a rift over issues including the Iran war and bolster what is known as the “special relationship” between the two countries. In his remarks, Trump explicitly linked Charles to that relationship.

“Prime Minister Winston Churchill and President Franklin Roosevelt famously met on a ship in the North Atlantic to outline a vision for the free world after World War Two. That understanding of our nation’s unique bond and role in history is the essence of our special relationship, and we hope it will always remain that way,” Trump said.

“The ship where the two great leaders met was called the Prince of Wales, the very title that His Majesty the king held longer than any other individual in British history,” he said.

Britain’s King Charles III listens as President Donald Trump speaks during a State Visit arrival ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

Britain’s King Charles III listens as President Donald Trump speaks during a State Visit arrival ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

Trump talked about his late mother, Mary Anne MacLeod, who was born in Scotland and loved watching the royal family on television at ceremonies and events.

“I also remember her saying very clearly, ‘Charles, look young Charles, he’s so cute,’” Trump said, looking back at the king sitting behind him on the dais.

“My mother had a crush on Charles -- can you believe it?”

Trump welcomed the king and queen noting the drizzle weather that had guests wiping off seats and huddling under umbrellas.

Trump paid tribute the Brits who first traveled to America, then a “wild and untamed continent,” and walked through a history of the “special relationship” between the two nations.

President Donald Trump, center back, along with Queen Camilla, left, and King Charles III watch the United States Army Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps during an arrival ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)

President Donald Trump, center back, along with Queen Camilla, left, and King Charles III watch the United States Army Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps during an arrival ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)

The president paid homage to the king’s mother, the late Queen Elizabeth II, as he welcomed the royal couple to the White House.

Trump said Elizabeth was “an incredible woman who I had the privilege of getting to know,” noting that she planted a tree at the White House years ago.“Look at it now,” he said.

President Donald Trump, center left, speaks with Britain’s King Charles III along with first lady Melania Trump, left, and Queen Camilla during a State Visit arrival ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin)

President Donald Trump, center left, speaks with Britain’s King Charles III along with first lady Melania Trump, left, and Queen Camilla during a State Visit arrival ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin)

The remarks were part of a broader effort by Trump to note the long history between the U.S. and the U.K.

“Like our nation itself,” Trump said of the tree, “it was laid with British hands but grew in American soil.”

President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump greet Britain’s King Charles III and Queen Camilla during a State Visit arrival ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein)

President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump greet Britain’s King Charles III and Queen Camilla during a State Visit arrival ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein)

President Trump and King Charles III greeted each other warmly on Tuesday as the monarch begins a day of diplomacy in Washington.

Trump welcomed Charles and Queen Camilla to the White House in a south lawn ceremony. The king shook hands with members of Trump’s Cabinet before joining the president for a rendition of the national anthem.

Construction on the new White House ballroom is seen from the Washington Monument, Monday, April 27, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)

Construction on the new White House ballroom is seen from the Washington Monument, Monday, April 27, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)

Nothing gets in the way of the president’s ballroom construction. Not even a visit from Britain’s king and queen.

Work on the project was continuing ahead of the royal visit to the White House. Ballroom construction cranes were swinging and the sound of clangs could be heard.

In the wake of Saturday’s shooting at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner, Trump has said the ballroom is needed to hold secure events. The construction, however, is the subject of an ongoing lawsuit.

Washington’s finicky spring weather is on display ahead of King Charles and Queen Camilla arriving at the White House. They’ll be greeted by President Trump and first lady Melania Trump on the South Lawn.

Ahead of their arrival, skies are grey with a light breeze. Drizzle and rain is possible over the next hour.

Members of the audience are shielding themselves with umbrellas to stay dry as the Marine band plays.

Guests arrive and in place to watch President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump greet Britain’s King Charles III and Queen Camilla during a State Visit arrival ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein)

Guests arrive and in place to watch President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump greet Britain’s King Charles III and Queen Camilla during a State Visit arrival ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein)

Is the U.S. president actually a distant royal?

The U.K.-based Daily Mail reported this week that Trump and King Charles III have a shared distant ancestor that would make the two 15th cousins.

According to research conducted for the tabloid, Trump and Charles are both related to the 3rd Earl of Lennox, who is a great-grandson of King James II of Scotland.

“Wow, that’s nice. I’ve always wanted to live in Buckingham Palace!!!” Trump posted on his social media site Tuesday morning shortly before he was to formally greet the king and Queen Camilla at the White House. “I’ll talk to the King and Queen about this in a few minutes!!!”

Staff members prepare the South Lawn before President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump welcome Britain’s King Charles III and Queen Camilla during a State Visit arrival ceremony at White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin)

Programs and flags are seen on chairs on the South Lawn before President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump welcome Britain’s King Charles III and Queen Camilla during a State Visit arrival ceremony at White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin)

Staff members prepare the South Lawn before President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump welcome Britain’s King Charles III and Queen Camilla during a State Visit arrival ceremony at White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin)

Staff members prepare the South Lawn before President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump welcome Britain’s King Charles III and Queen Camilla during a State Visit arrival ceremony at White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin)

Staff members prepare the South Lawn before President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump welcome Britain’s King Charles III and Queen Camilla during a State Visit arrival ceremony at White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin)

Programs and flags are seen on chairs on the South Lawn before President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump welcome Britain’s King Charles III and Queen Camilla during a State Visit arrival ceremony at White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin)

Programs and flags are seen on chairs on the South Lawn before President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump welcome Britain’s King Charles III and Queen Camilla during a State Visit arrival ceremony at White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin)

Staff members prepare the South Lawn before President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump welcome Britain’s King Charles III and Queen Camilla during a State Visit arrival ceremony at White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin)

Staff members prepare the South Lawn before President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump welcome Britain’s King Charles III and Queen Camilla during a State Visit arrival ceremony at White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin)

Charles has faced some calls on Capitol Hill to meet with victims of Jeffrey Epstein while he is in the U.S. There’s no indication that he will do so, even as the scandal involving the convicted sex offender has ensnared his brother, the former Prince Andrew, who was arrested in February over misconduct allegations, which he denies.

U.S. Rep. Ro Khanna, D-Calif., urged the king over the weekend to at least address the issue during his congressional speech.

Britain’s Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, formerly known as Prince Andrew, looks round as he leaves after attending the Easter Matins Service at St. George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle, England, April 20, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth, File)

Britain’s Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, formerly known as Prince Andrew, looks round as he leaves after attending the Easter Matins Service at St. George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle, England, April 20, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth, File)

President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump greet Britain’s King Charles III and Queen Camilla as they arrive at the White House, Monday, April 27, 2026, in Washington (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein)

President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump greet Britain’s King Charles III and Queen Camilla as they arrive at the White House, Monday, April 27, 2026, in Washington (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein)

The president has spoken in glowing terms about Charles, repeatedly referring to the monarch as his “friend” and a “great guy.”

He also continues to mention his “amazing” trip to the U.K. in September with Melania Trump for an unprecedented second state visit. Starmer hand-delivered the invitation from the king in the Oval Office five weeks after Trump returned to office, in a very public attempt to woo the Republican president.

The U.K. royal family laid on pomp and pageantry for the Trumps, with scarlet-clad guardsmen, brass bands and a sumptuous banquet at Windsor Castle.

“President Trump has always had great respect for King Charles, and their relationship was further strengthened by the president’s historic visit to the United Kingdom last year,” White House spokesperson Anna Kelly told The Associated Press.

Britain’s Prime Minister Keir Starmer, left, and U.S. President Donald Trump shake hands at a joint press conference in the East Room at the White House Thursday, Feb. 27, 2025, in Washington. (Carl Court/Pool Photo via AP)

Britain’s Prime Minister Keir Starmer, left, and U.S. President Donald Trump shake hands at a joint press conference in the East Room at the White House Thursday, Feb. 27, 2025, in Washington. (Carl Court/Pool Photo via AP)

Trump’s up-and-down relationship with Prime Minister Keir Starmer has taken a particularly sour turn over the past several months as the president has sought to rally international support for the war in Iran. Trump lamented that Starmer, who has largely resisted his overtures, was “no Churchill.”

Trump has also imposed tariffs on the U.K. and warned of additional levies despite a Supreme Court ruling earlier this year that has made such unilateral moves more challenging. Still, Trump threatened just last week to slap a “big tariff” on the U.K. if it doesn’t scrap a digital services tax on U.S. technology companies.

Trump has more broadly challenged the traditional trans-Atlantic alliance, with efforts to annex Greenland and threats to withdraw from NATO. He has repeatedly imposed tariffs on and taunted Canada, a member of the British Commonwealth.

King Charles III will become the first British monarch to address the U.S. Congress since his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, in 1991. Her speech highlighted the shared history of both countries and the importance of their democratic values, themes Charles will likely reinforce on Tuesday.

Such addresses are an opportunity afforded to only the most prominent world leaders, including Pope Francis, Václav Havel and Winston Churchill. It will likely mark the most extensive public remarks Charles will deliver during a four-day visit to the U.S. that’s intended to celebrate the country’s 250th anniversary of independence from Britain.

Queen Elizabeth II waves from the steps of the United States Senate on Thursday, May 16, 1991 in Washington on her way to address a joint session of Congress. House Speaker Thomas Foley, left, and Senate Majority Leader George Mitchell escort the Queen. (AP Photo/John Duricka)

Queen Elizabeth II waves from the steps of the United States Senate on Thursday, May 16, 1991 in Washington on her way to address a joint session of Congress. House Speaker Thomas Foley, left, and Senate Majority Leader George Mitchell escort the Queen. (AP Photo/John Duricka)

Two and a half centuries after the American colonies declared independence from Britain under King George III, his descendant King Charles III arrived at the White House on Monday with trans-Atlantic ties under strain and security in the spotlight.

King Charles III and Queen Camilla arrive at Joint Base Andrews, Md., Monday, April 27, 2026. (AP Photo/Rod Lamkey, Jr.)

King Charles III and Queen Camilla arrive at Joint Base Andrews, Md., Monday, April 27, 2026. (AP Photo/Rod Lamkey, Jr.)

The king, accompanied by Queen Camilla, will begin his day with a meeting at the White House with U.S. President Donald Trump. The Oval Office encounter offers the potential for the freewheeling, sometimes controversial meetings with foreign leaders that have become routine during Trump’s second term.

But given the expressly apolitical nature of the British monarch and Trump’s fondness for the royal family, the likelihood of an awkward meeting may be reduced.

Trump will host Charles on Tuesday evening for a state banquet at the White House.