08.05.2026 20:01
King Charles III of the United Kingdom made history by addressing the U.S. Congress during his visit to Washington, marking the first such event in 35 years. In his speech, he emphasized that the world is going through a much more dangerous and uncertain period than it was in 1991, and stressed that the U.S.-UK alliance is vital for global stability. Charles pledged support for Ukraine and concluded his speech by celebrating the anniversary of U.S. independence.
King Charles III of the United Kingdom addressed a joint session of the U.S. Congress, marking himself as the second British monarch to speak before Congress in 35 years, following Queen Elizabeth II in 1991.
Before his speech, King Charles received a standing ovation for several minutes. He emphasized the importance of the historic ties between the two countries and stressed that the strong relationship between the U.S. and the UK continues to play a significant role in the international system today.
"WE ARE IN THE MIDST OF A GREAT PERIOD OF UNCERTAINTY"
King Charles stated, "We are in the midst of a great period of uncertainty; in this era of conflicts stretching from Europe to the Middle East, immense challenges lie before the international community, and the impact of these conflicts is felt across our countries."
Highlighting that the chaos in the international system increases the responsibility on countries like the U.S. and the UK, and that the alliance between these two nations is more important than ever, Charles illustrated his approach with examples from U.S. history.
King Charles said, "We are truly grateful to the American people for the alliance our two nations have built over centuries," and, referencing the process of U.S. independence 250 years ago, he explained that despite some disagreements, both nations continue to work together in strong cooperation with democratic maturity.
"WE LIVE IN A MORE DANGEROUS TIME THAN 1991"
Referring to Queen Elizabeth II's 1991 speech to Congress, Charles stated, "Today, we live in a new era, but our same values still hold true. This period is more unstable and more dangerous than the world my late mother spoke of in this chamber in 1991. The challenges we face are too great for any single nation to overcome alone."
Noting that the alliance between the U.S. and the UK cannot sustain itself and must be preserved, King Charles emphasized that the UK has significantly increased its defense budget under NATO and contributes strongly to the Western alliance.
MESSAGE OF SUPPORT FOR UKRAINE
Also addressing Ukraine in his speech, the British King said, "Today, indeed, the same unwavering determination is needed to protect Ukraine and its bravest people to achieve a just and lasting peace."
Recalling the significant cooperation between the U.S. and the UK, especially in defense, King Charles expressed that these joint efforts are crucial for the security of the international order.
Charles stated, "The story of the United Kingdom and the United States is fundamentally a story of reconciliation, renewal, and an extraordinary partnership," and congratulated the U.S. on its 250th founding anniversary.
Concluding his speech with the words, "On your 250th anniversary, let us reaffirm our commitment to each other to selflessly serve the peoples of our countries and all peoples around the world," King Charles and his wife Queen Camilla left the hall after shaking hands with members of Congress.