A Historic State Visit to the UK
The US president embarked on an official state visit to the United Kingdom this week. His journey began with a visit to the historic Windsor Castle, where he was graciously received by the reigning monarch, King Charles III.
This isn't the first time the US president has been invited for a state visit by the British royalty. In fact, he's the first political leader in recent history to be invited twice by a British monarch for an official state visit. The previous invitation was extended by the late Queen Elizabeth II in 2019.
A Royal Reception at Windsor Castle
The president and the first lady began their visit with a grand welcome at Windsor Castle. They arrived via the presidential helicopter, Marine One, after spending the previous night at Winfield House in central London.
They were greeted with warm smiles and handshakes in the castle's Walled Garden by Prince William and his wife, Kate Middleton. After the initial meet and greet, the president and the first lady were ushered into a carriage that took them to Windsor Castle. A ceremonial reception was held in their honor.
A State Banquet with the Royal Family
Later in the day, the US president and the first lady were guests of honor at a state banquet hosted by the royal family at Windsor. The lavish event was a testament to the deep-rooted ties between the United States and the United Kingdom.
Meeting with the British Prime Minister
The following day, the president had a scheduled meeting with the British Prime Minister Keir Starmer at Chequers, the official country residence of the prime minister in Aylesbury. The two leaders were expected to address the media in a press conference, following their meeting.
Officials from the administration noted that this state visit serves to underscore the strong bond between the United States and the United Kingdom. They emphasized that the visit not only renews the special relationship between the two nations but also commemorates the upcoming 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States.
A Grand Military Salute
Adding to the grandeur of the visit, the president was honored with a joint US-British flypast of F-35 fighter jets. Approximately 1,300 members of the British armed forces, along with 120 horses, participated in the ceremonial welcome at Windsor Castle. This guard of honor was the largest ever organized for a state visit to the U.K., making this a truly historic occasion.