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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
National
Jane Dalton

King Charles delivers historic speech to US Congress amid strained US-UK relationship

  • King Charles addressed a joint session of the US Congress Tuesday, implicitly challenging President Donald Trump's threats to withdraw the US from NATO by affirming the alliance's importance and highlighting Britain's increased defence spending.
  • During his historic speech, the King underscored the necessity of 'unyielding resolve' for Ukraine's defence, drawing a parallel to the invocation of NATO's Article 5 after the 9/11 attacks.
  • He emphasised the enduring 'special relationship' between the UK and the US, describing their partnership as 'one of the greatest alliances in human history' and more crucial than ever, despite past disputes.
  • The King also touched upon the climate crisis, urging a shared responsibility to protect natural systems, and referenced the recent shooting at the White House Correspondents' Dinner, calling for unity in upholding democracy.
  • In a subtle remark, Charles spoke of the 'collective strength' needed to support victims of societal ills, which was interpreted by some as an oblique acknowledgement of the Jeffrey Epstein scandal.

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