Trump praises enduring US-UK bonds at royal banquet

On Wednesday night, September 16, 2025, President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump were honored as guests at a royal state banquet held at Windsor Castle in the United Kingdom. The banquet took place in the historic St George’s Hall, showcasing the close ties between the United States and the UK that President Trump emphasized as ‘transcendent.’ During his speech, Trump expressed deep gratitude towards his royal hosts, acknowledging King Charles III and Queen Camilla for their hospitality, while celebrating the shared historical contributions of both nations to global values. King Charles III opened the banquet with a warm toast, highlighting the evolving friendship between the countries since the American Declaration of Independence. He humorously remarked on how America's forebears from 1776 might view the current relationship with the UK, noting that the distance of the ocean still exists, yet cultural and familial ties create a strong connection. His speech elicited laughter from President Trump, who appreciated the King's light-hearted anecdotes regarding Trump's British roots and his multiple visits to the UK. In his reply, President Trump passionately described the US-UK relationship as not merely special but irreplaceable, likening it to music where both nations are 'two notes of the same chord.' He referenced the Vice President's pride in his British heritage and reiterated the significant impact both countries have had in promoting freedom, rule of law, and individual rights. The President underscored the importance of defending their shared values and legacy, reminding attendees of their joint responsibility in continuing to do good for humanity. The night concluded with President Trump and Melania Trump spending the night at Windsor Castle, marking a significant diplomatic visit before engaging in further political meetings with UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer the following day. This banquet represented not only an iconic moment in US-UK relations but also a platform to reaffirm commitments to cooperative global initiatives between two longstanding allies.