King Charles III to meet Trump off camera amid fears of Zelenskyy-style clash
WASHINGTON, DC: Britain is treading carefully as Donald Trump hosts King Charles III at the White House, with officials quietly ensuring that one key meeting stays away from the cameras.
The high-profile visit, which began on a warm and polished note, comes with underlying tension.
By Tuesday, April 29, it had become clear that British officials were pushing for a private Oval Office conversation between the two leaders - all to avoid any awkward or confrontational moments playing out in public.
British officials push for private meeting to avoid repeat scenes
Behind the scenes, there’s a clear concern driving the decision.
British officials are wary of a repeat of what happened when Trump publicly berated Volodymyr Zelenskyy in front of the press.
Sources involved in planning the visit said the King will still pose for photographs at the start of the meeting. But after that, cameras will be kept out when any real discussions begin.
The idea is simple - avoid any chance of a tense or uncomfortable exchange becoming a global headline. It’s a cautious move, especially given how closely watched this visit already is.
Warm welcome at White House masks deeper tensions
On the surface, everything looked smooth. Donald Trump and Melania Trump welcomed King Charles and Queen Camilla with handshakes and even a kiss on the cheek.
The four of them then moved inside for a traditional English afternoon tea in the Green Room, complete with small sandwiches and tea poured through a strainer. It was all very polished - almost symbolic of a reset in tone.
Later, the royal couple attended a garden party at the British ambassador’s residence, where they mingled with key political and media figures. The mood, at least publicly, remained relaxed and friendly.
State visit seen as key to repairing strained ties
But beneath the charm, the stakes are high. The visit is being seen as a chance to repair relations between the US and the UK, which have been under strain in recent months.
Trump has been openly critical of British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, especially over issues linked to the Iran war and energy policies. That tension has put extra pressure on this visit to deliver some stability.
British ministers are hopeful that King Charles can help ease some of that friction. While he won’t be negotiating policy, his presence carries weight, and officials are clearly counting on that.
Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper is also expected to be around during key moments, ready to step in if anything awkward arises.
The four-day visit is packed with symbolic events - from a joint address to Congress to a state dinner at the White House. There are also public appearances, including a visit to the 9/11 Memorial.
