King Charles III wields tiara diplomacy ahead of Trump’s visit
Staff at Windsor Castle are preparing the 50-metre-long mahogany table. Grooms are polishing the hooves of the horses designated to pull the royal carriages. In order to guarantee that every step lands precisely, the military honor guard is also drilling. In the nearly 1,000-year-old castle west of London, hundreds are diligently preparing for King Charles III’s reception of US President Donald Trump during his historic second state visit this week. The visit showcased glittering tiaras, brass bands, and a sumptuous banquet served on 200-year-old silver, exemplifying the unique pomp and ceremony that Britain is renowned for.
However, it serves a significant purpose: to strengthen connections with one of the world’s most influential leaders amid the upheaval caused by his America First policies on established trade and security alliances. “We’re buttering up to him,” said Robert Lacey. He wouldn’t come to Britain if he didn’t have the chance to stay at Windsor Castle, likely to pay homage to the queen he admires so much, and to meet the king. Three centuries after Britain’s monarchs relinquished political authority to become ceremonial heads of state, the royals continue to serve as a potent tool of soft power, utilized by the elected government to reward allies and extract concessions from hesitant partners. State visits represent the monarchy’s premier instrument, as world leaders compete for the complete royal experience. Over seven decades of her reign, the late Queen Elizabeth II welcomed a diverse array of figures, including Romanian dictator Nicolae Ceausescu and South African President Nelson Mandela. The royals have hosted the last four US presidents, although not all were full-scale state visits.
“While the impact of soft power is hard to quantify, it contributes to a feeling of friendship that may incline another party to be more open to your entreaties,” said Martin Farr, an expert in modern British history at Newcastle University. Six years ago, Britain sought Trump’s support while preparing to exit the European Union. The UK is currently advocating for favorable trade terms and assistance in addressing Russian aggression in Ukraine. A new Trump presidency, a new prime minister, a different government, yet the same sense of panic persists. The most effective strategy with this president appears to be flattery, attempting to link him to something that genuinely impresses him—monarchy—and the fact that his mother was born in Scotland, Farr said. In February, just five weeks into Trump’s second term, Prime Minister Keir Starmer rushed to Washington to deliver the king’s invitation for a state visit. It marked the first occasion a world leader was granted the honour of a second state visit, with the invitation uniquely presented in a personal letter from the king, which Trump showcased for television cameras. “It’s a great, great honour,” and that says at Windsor, Trump said as he praised the king. That’s truly remarkable. A president known for embellishing the Oval Office is set to create a White House ballroom capable of hosting 650 guests.
The president and first lady Melania Trump will arrive in the UK late Tuesday, with the main events of the visit commencing the following day. Following their welcome, Charles and Queen Camilla will join the Trumps for a carriage ride through the Windsor estate, returning to the castle along a route lined with armed forces members. Within the castle’s crenellated walls, initiated by William the Conqueror in 1070, a military band will perform the national anthems of both nations prior to Charles and Trump reviewing the guard of honour. Hundreds of military personnel will participate in the ceremonies, including mounted troops, foot guards, and musicians, following months of rehearsals. When rifles are shouldered, it will come with a single thwack. When boots hit the ground, they will do so in unison. God Save the King and The Star-Spangled Banner will be performed flawlessly.
Following the welcoming ceremonies, the Trumps will observe an exhibit featuring documents and artwork that showcase the shared history of Britain and the US. The palace has not disclosed what will be included, but the possibilities are numerous for two nations with shared legal and democratic traditions dating back to the Magna Carta, the historic charter of rights signed in 1215 at Runnymede, just a few miles from Windsor. Wednesday night’s state banquet will be the highlight of the visit, featuring men in white ties and tail coats, while women will don designer gowns and jewels that shimmer in the flickering light from antique candelabra. “The tiaras will be out in force,” said Hugo Vickers. The king and queen will gather with their guests at the impressive Waterloo Table, measuring approximately half the length of a football field and accommodating 160 guests. Setting the table takes five full days, featuring the Grand Service, a silver-gilt dining set comprising over 4,000 pieces, including serving dishes, dinner plates, and egg cups.
Vickers stated that the silver and ceremonies facilitate conciliation, a method Elizabeth believed could address even the most difficult issues. Keir Starmer has strategically utilized the king to entice President Trump to visit, promising him an enjoyable experience, he stated. It’s a wonderful opportunity, with all the goodwill that will be engaged at this point, to talk to him and if there’s any hope of sorting out Ukraine, etc. This represents progress. Discussions will occur Thursday, as Trump and Starmer convene at Chequers, the country estate of British prime ministers.
