"During two World Wars, we collaborated to overcome tyranny," Charles remarked to President Donald Trump at a state dinner. "Today, as Europe faces the threat of tyranny once more, we and our allies unite in support of Ukraine to deter aggression and maintain peace."
This was an important, albeit gentle, reminder to his guest that American involvement in the Western response to counter Russia’s hostilities remains crucial and urgent, even as Trump appears indecisive regarding the implementation of new sanctions on Moscow and seems again to express dissatisfaction with Ukraine’s leader for not agreeing to a compromise.
The king's reference to the conflict was certainly intentional. His statements would have been crafted with the input from the government of Britain. Moreover, the king — according to sources, is informed on ceasefire negotiations — has previously demonstrated his commitment to the Ukrainian cause, including in March when he welcomed President Volodymyr Zelensky to his private residence at Sandringham, just three days after an explosive confrontation in the Oval Office between Trump and Zelensky.
The ongoing conflict will challenge Britain’s soft influence in persuading Trump to exert further pressure on Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Some European officials remain hopeful that this charm offensive could inspire Trump to gain a deeper understanding of the historical significance of the US involvement in European security and offer a renewed perspective on his allies’ requests for stronger actions against Russia.
The subject will likely come up when Trump meets with Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who has been attempting to persuade Trump to take a firmer position against Moscow.