King Charles stands up for Ukraine in State Banquet speech

King Charles pulled out all the stops as he hosted the State Visit for US President Donald Trump. And although The King was showcasing the pomp and pageantry that comes with one of these events, he also tiptoed towards politics in his speech at the State Banquet.

King Charles III was sure to highlight his belief in the importance of supporting Ukraine as the war with Russia continues.

It’s the stance of the UK government, too, as well as of all the opposition parties so The King wasn’t going against any policy. However, Donald Trump’s position on Ukraine has vacillated. he King however, stood his ground at the State Banquet, showing he can handle whatever comes his way. 

The King and Queen hosted US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump at Windsor Castle for the State Banquet following a day of ceremonial that included a carriage ride through the Windsor estate and a Beating the Retreat ceremony as well as a flypast by the Red Arrows.

The day ended with a spectacular State Banquet and King Charles gave his customary speech welcoming the president and highlighting the relationship between the two nations. 

He also took his chance to talk up the UK in his speech, saying, ‘Mr President, you have spoken of your pride in your British roots. In fact, not only have you set foot on British soil twice in the last two months alone, but I understand that British soil makes for rather splendid golf courses!’

The US President briefly smiled afterwards but did not react otherwise. He may already have been impressed by the inclusion of one of the UK’s best ever golfers, Nick Faldo, on the guest list.

His Majesty also pointedly mentioned Ukraine in his speech, a controversial topic given President Trump’s track record in negotiating between Ukraine and Russia. The King said ”‘Today, as tyranny once again threatens Europe, we and our allies stand together in support of Ukraine, to deter aggression and secure peace’.

Mr Trump appeared to nod as those words were said.

In his own speech, the US President spoke of his honour at being given an unprecedented second State Visit and was full of praise for The King, The Queen and the Prince and Princess of Wales.