King Charles III once had a very cordial and somewhat underreported bromance with President Donald Trump.
His Majesty and the American politician often shared kind words about each other. They also wrote profound words of encouragement in letters to each other during dire moments in their lives.
For example, King Charles wrote a touching letter to Trump after his failed assassination attempt. In dozens of interviews, Trump professed his affection for the royals and the monarchy and gleefully attacked Prince Harry and Meghan Markle for criticizing the Royal Family.
However, over the past few months, the relationship between the two leaders has taken a turn — not in the right direction. Trump attempted to step on King Charles’s turf and authority by threatening to annex Canada.
In speeches and interviews, President Trump claimed that Canadians would have no other option but to become the 51st state of the US.
Trump’s constant threats to invade his nothern neighbors forced the King, who is battling cancer, to fly to Canada and deliver a bold and clear message — this country is not for sale.
In a dramatic speech in Ottawa, King Charles drew a line on the sand, warning Trump to back away. In September, Trump and His Majesty are set to meet face-to-face.
Months before the official visit, drama has been brewing between the former close allies. Trump’s trip to the UK has created a quandary for His Majesty because the president wants the bells and whistles, which include a grand state dinner and a royal procession, and it will not be possible.
First of all, the president will not be greeted at Buckingham Palace as it was done during his first state visit. The famous and historic castle is currently under renovation, and access is not permitted.
A source explained: “He can’t go to Buckingham Palace because it is being renovated… And he can’t have a state coach for security reasons.”
The second reason for dial-back visits is the many protests that will take place once Trump has arrived. Trump and His Majesty got a taste of what was to come with the large protest in London on June 14 during what was dubbed No Kings Day.
Trump’s ally suggested that he meet with the King in Balmoral, Scotland. The remote estate would prevent the chaos and concerns associated with protests.
One said: “That would do away with the protests and solve the security concerns.” Another senior figure involved in the discussions said the situation is thorny at best because it is not possible to give Trump the parade and attention he seeks.
The person stated: “There is a challenge in trying to understand what they want and in tempering expectations of what can be delivered.”
Other Trump sources declare that it is more than a state visit, and he will receive the extravagant welcome he deserves, as the relations between the nations are vital.
One senior figure said: “September’s visit would be a full bells and whistles affair in which the red carpet is rolled out in a big way. It will be full of pomp and ceremony. The US relationship is important.”
His Majesty is reportedly frustrated by the ongoing drama and circus about the trip.
