1 week Ago By Matt-sinha
King Charles and Donald Trump are unlikely pen pals. The two men have opposing views on manmade climate change, immigration, and civility, for starters. But one thing Charles learned from his mother was when to pinch his nose.
For 70 years, the late Queen’s talent for soft diplomacy led her a merry dance through meetings with despots and undesirables. Now it is the turn of her son to cosy up to a tricky character, in the name of the British national interest. Trump adores regal pomp.
His personal relationship with the King, and the history between their families, is irresistible. Charles once visited Mar-a-Lago and the Trumps have a cherished photo in their family album. Read Next Donald Trump gets personal with Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s marriage after their US election voting call For the King, their relationship is pragmatic.
He has swallowed his distaste, after initially reacting with “torrents of profanity” to Trump’s comments about certain royals. Cast into history are the remarks a decade ago about topless photos of Kate Middleton, as well as Trump’s claim in 1997 – shortly after Diana’s death – that he “could have” slept with her. So Charles and Camilla now correspond with Donald and Melania.
Charles wrote to him in July after he escaped assassination. Expect a state visit. The King has taken an active role in British diplomacy since Labour came to power.
He has worked closely with Keir Starmer, as the Government seeks a better Brexit trade deal with Europe. Starmer and Trump are likely to disagree on a lot. Charles won’t change the president-elect’s mind on fossil fuels or trade.
But he does have a stronger hand to play than his great-great-great-great-great-grandfather, George III..
