Kate could play a crucial role in the historic State Visit of Donald Trump to the UK

The State Visit by Donald Trump to the UK in September 2025 promises to be a significant event on the political calendar. It’s being seen as one of the most crucial diplomatic events of the reign of King Charles III and for a good reason. As President Trump faces protests on his latest, less formal trip to the UK, it’s also a reminder of the difficulties there will be in navigating what will be a controversial State Visit. At the heart of the hugely important State Visit will be King Charles and another key royal. For the Princess of Wales is expected to play a major part in this historic event.

The State Visit of Donald Trump will be a glittering event

The State Visit is expected to involve a series of formal engagements, such as meetings with the Prime Minister and other government officials. However, although the political events – which could also see Donald Trump address both Houses of Parliament – are the vital part of this visit, it is the ceremonial that will catch the eye and provide the showcase for a trip seen as underpinning a crucial relationship for the UK.

The Princess of Wales is anticipated to play a big role in this aspect of the event. It is now expected that Kate, along with the Prince of Wales, could begin the outward facing part of this visit.

In July 2025, the Prince and Princess of Wales walked across the tarmac at RAF Brize Norton to greet the President of France, Emmanuel Macron, as he disembarked his plane at the state of his own State Visit to the country.

There’s every expectation that William and Kate will lead on welcoming the American delegation as well as participating in various aspects of the visit. There were some striking images of the Prince and Princess greeting the French President and one photo of Emmanuel Macron kissing Kate’s hand as he met her became symbolic of the whole State Visit.

The Princess of Wales front and centre

The presence of the Princess of Wales is expected to add a touch of regal elegance to the proceedings, symbolizing the strong historic ties between the UK and the USA. The arrival of President Macron saw Kate tip her hat, quite literally, at French fashion as she chose a Christian Dior outfit for the big moment before wearing Givenchy for the State Banquet. Subtle nods like those, the so called ‘soft power’ touches, can prove instrumental to the success of a State Visit.

It is envisaged that the State Visit by Donald Trump to the UK in September 2025 will garner significant media attention. The visit is poised to strengthen diplomatic relations between the two nations and serve as a platform for discussing key global issues. Images that show that to the rest of the world will be top of many lists on both sides and there’s no doubt that the power of a photo with the Princess of Wales brings that potential.

Tight security for a controversial visit

Various security measures will be implemented to ensure the safety of all dignitaries involved in the visit. The ceremonial events planned for the visit will showcase the rich cultural heritage of both countries and underscore the importance of international cooperation. Royal leadership on this State Visit is expected to highlight the enduring friendship between the UK and the USA while exemplifying grace and diplomacy on the world stage. The participation of King Charles, Queen Camilla and the Royal Family in the State Visit is set to underscore the importance of transatlantic alliances and shared values between the UK and the USA.

However, the last State Visit by Donald Trump – in 2019 – brought additional security issues and eventually saw the US leader land in a helicopter on the lawn of Buckingham Palace while protests against his trip took place in central London.

Politics, economy and key interests at the heart of a State Visit

The visit is scheduled to include a range of formal events and discussions aimed at addressing mutual interests and global challenges. Recent State Visits have seen engagements focused on environmental issues, technology and the food economy. Areas seen as vital for co-operation between the US and UK will be on the agenda. The ceremonial activities planned for the occasion will serve as a representation of the cultural richness and heritage shared between the UK and the USA.

Of particular interest this time round is the second set piece evening event. Usually, State Visits see leaders invited to the Guildhall in London for a gala banquet hosted by the Mayor of the City of London. In the past, the Princess Royal and the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester have taken lead roles in that event. The Princess of Wales’s involvement in the State Visit is poised to emphasize the enduring friendship between the UK and the USA and that could mean William and Kate taking on the second big evening event.

Their involvement is important in showcasing diplomacy on the global stage. Kate’s presence during the State Visit will underline the significance of transatlantic alliances and shared values between the UK and the USA.