GB News royal correspondent Cameron Walker has claimed that King Charles is facing a "huge conundrum" over President Trump's upcoming state visit.
Speaking on GB News, Cameron explained that the King finds himself in a "constitutionally awkward position" as he serves as monarch of both the United Kingdom and Canada, whilst Trump has repeatedly suggested Canada could become America's 51st state.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has reportedly overruled the Palace's preference for a more gradual approach to Trump's visit, instead pushing for an immediate full state visit in September.
The Palace had reportedly hoped for a "more leisurely and considered approach, building towards a full state visit," but Starmer prioritised strengthening UK-US relations over royal concerns.
Cameron Walker said it has left the King with a "huge conundrum"
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GB News host Andrew Pierce said: "It is just fascinating. I could never quite understand how it was supposed to be a diplomatic success or even a diplomatic operation when we’ve had the President of the United States effectively trying to turn Canada into the 51st state.
"And, of course, Canada is one of the King’s realms.
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Cameron explained: "Well, it’s a huge conundrum, isn’t it?
"Because from Keir Starmer’s perspective, as Prime Minister, he wants the King to essentially butter up President Trump and Trump has a huge fascination with the Royal Family, a genuine love for it.
"So, the King rolling out the red carpet for President Trump at Windsor Castle is a massive win for Keir Starmer.
"It strengthens the diplomatic relationship between the UK and the US potentially paving the way for improved trade deals or better cooperation, especially given that President Trump is often more hostile toward the European Union.
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"But at the same time, Mark Carney and others in Canada are said to be incredibly disappointed as are many Canadians with the UK Government for inviting President Trump for a state visit."
Despite initial confusion, a Palace spokesperson has now confirmed: "His Majesty has known President Trump for many years and looks forward to hosting him and the First Lady later this year."
The visit is expected to take place in September, with formal planning now underway following the delivery of the official invitation to the White House.
The formal invitation, known as the "manu regia," was hand-delivered to the White House last week, confirming plans for what will be an unprecedented second state visit by a US President.
King Charles is the monarch for Canada
GettyThe King's letter, which Starmer delivered to Trump in February, suggested they might meet at Balmoral or Dumfries House in Scotland to "plan the state visit together".
In the letter, the King noted that "a second state visit by a US President was unprecedented" and indicated he would find it helpful to "discuss, together, a range of options".
Canada's Prime Minister Mark Carney said his country is "not impressed" with Britain's invitation, whilst Starmer has refused to confirm whether he privately urged Trump to moderate his Canadian rhetoric.
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