WASHINGTON (AFP) – King Charles III shared a lighthearted moment with US President Donald Trump during a state dinner at the White House on Tuesday, using humor to reflect on history and diplomacy.
During his toast, the British monarch playfully remarked that without Britain, Americans “would be speaking French,” referencing colonial-era rivalries in North America. His comment echoed Trump’s earlier statement suggesting Europe might be speaking German without US support in World War II.
The exchange highlighted the friendly tone between the two leaders, despite underlying tensions over the conflict involving Iran. Charles also joked about Trump’s renovation plans at the White House, comparing them to Britain’s own historical “redecoration” when British forces burned the building during the War of 1812.
Adding to the humor, the king referenced the Boston Tea Party, calling the evening “a considerable improvement” over the famous anti-British protest.
Trump, known for his admiration of the British royal family, returned the humor with remarks about Charles’ speech to Congress, joking about its reception among political opponents.
As a gesture of goodwill, King Charles presented Trump with a ceremonial bell from a World War II-era British submarine, symbolizing the enduring ties and shared history between the United Kingdom and the United States.

