Keir Starmer is reportedly concerned that King Charles may be heading for a diplomatic clash with U.S. President Donald Trump, as the monarch is set to arrive in Canada tomorrow for the state opening of the country’s Parliament.
Tensions have risen following Mr. Trump’s recent remarks suggesting that Canada should become America’s 51st state—a statement firmly rejected by Canada’s new Prime Minister, Mark Carney, who pledged to protect the nation’s sovereignty.
Although Charles serves as King of Canada independently of his role as the British monarch, he is not expected to directly address Trump’s controversial comments.
Still, there is speculation he may make remarks aimed at reassuring Canadians. The King is scheduled to deliver a 30-minute address prepared by the Canadian government.
While the British Government typically holds the right to “advise” the monarch on matters involving the UK, it lacks authority over Charles’s engagements in other realms where he reigns as sovereign.
Nevertheless, UK ministers have privately urged him to avoid stirring tensions with President Trump during his Canadian visit.
According to The Sunday Times, a government source revealed that British officials have lobbied the Canadian administration to steer the King clear of any issues relating to Trump, but these efforts have reportedly met with strong resistance from Canadian officials.
Despite Trump’s admiration for the British monarchy—and the Royal Family’s role in a charm offensive directed at Washington, including the offer of a second state visit—diplomatic sensitivities remain high.
King Charles, currently undergoing weekly cancer treatment, will be joined by Queen Camilla for the ceremonial event on Tuesday, marking only the second time a reigning monarch has attended the opening of Canada’s Parliament.
Earlier this month, when Carney met Trump at the White House, he told the former president that Canada “is not for sale,” drawing on real estate metaphors to underscore the country’s independence.
“There are some places that are never for sale,” Carney said, adding that after months of engaging with Canadians, “It’s not for sale. Won’t be for sale, ever.” Trump replied with a pointed, “Never say never.”
In a related development, Trump had previously signaled openness to the idea of the U.S. becoming an “associate member” of the Commonwealth—a proposal reportedly put forth by King Charles.
On Friday, the former president posted on his Truth Social platform: “I love King Charles. Sounds good to me!”
