King Charles and Camilla’s US state visit on despite alleged Trump assassination bid

The White House called the incident an alleged attempted assassination, with one Secret Service officer shot, as King Charles and Queen Camilla’s state visit is confirmed

The King’s US state visit will “proceed as planned” following discussions on both sides of the Atlantic after what the White House has dubbed the attempted assassination of President Donald Trump.

Security arrangements for Charles and Camilla were reviewed following Saturday’s violent incident at a Washington media dinner where Mr Trump, the first lady and senior figures from his administration were hurriedly escorted out of the room by the secret service after shots were fired.

A Buckingham Palace spokesperson stated: “Following discussions on both sides of the Atlantic through the day, and acting on advice of Government, we can confirm the state visit by Their Majesties will proceed as planned.

“The King and Queen are most grateful to all those who have worked at pace to ensure this remains the case and are looking forward to the visit getting under way tomorrow.”

It is understood that there will be some minor operational changes to one or two royal engagements during the trip but the overall plan remains as previously outlined.

Charles and Camilla will touch down in Washington on Monday for a four-day visit aimed at commemorating the 250th anniversary of American independence and bolstering the special UK-US relationship, which has been under significant strain in recent months.

The visit marks the most significant foreign journey of the King’s reign to date, but it now carries an additional layer of security worries following the violent episode at the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner.

Earlier in the day, Chief Secretary to the Prime Minister Darren Jones stated that security discussions would occur on Sunday and over the forthcoming days.

It is understood that the King and Queen have privately contacted the president and his wife, Melania, to convey their condolences to all those impacted on the night, as well as their appreciation for the security services who averted further harm.

The alleged perpetrator, reported to have been armed with a shotgun and handgun, has been identified as Cole Tomas Allen, 31, from Torrance, California. An officer who was shot but shielded by his bulletproof vest was taken to hospital.

The 31-year-old is believed to have been a guest at the Washington Hilton hotel where the dinner took place.

The state visit arrives at a crucial juncture for the UK and US, with relations between the Prime Minister and the American leader strained.

Mr Trump has labelled the UK’s approach to the Iran war “terrible” and repeatedly criticised Sir Keir Starmer – even once referring to him as “not Winston Churchill”.

Moreover, reports suggest the US could reconsider its stance on the Falkland Islands in response to Sir Keir’s lack of support for the war in Iran.

The monarchy’s soft power diplomacy remains its most potent tool in advancing the UK’s international interests and there will be optimism in Downing Street that Charles and Camilla can help strengthen the foundations of the UK-US special relationship.

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