King Charles has conveyed his congratulations to U.S. President Donald Trump on the occasion of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. In his message, the King also emphasized a "shared responsibility to protect the natural world," a point made in light of Trump's past criticisms of net-zero policies.
The letter, signed 'Charles R.,' expressed the King and Queen Camilla's delight in sending "warmest congratulations to you and to the people of the United States of America on the occasion of the 250th anniversary of your nation's independence." The Royal Family also posted a congratulatory message on Instagram.
This correspondence follows a significant four-day state visit by King Charles and Queen Camilla to the U.S. in April to commemorate the milestone. Their itinerary included engagements in Washington, New York, and Virginia, featuring a tea at the White House with President Trump and his wife Melania, a state banquet, and a street party in Virginia.
During his visit, King Charles addressed the U.S. Congress, marking the second time a British monarch has done so. His remarks at the time, noting that executive power is "subject to checks and balances" as a tradition rooted in the Magna Carta, were interpreted by some as a subtle warning to Trump.
Charles's current letter to Trump echoes themes of partnership and unity he conveyed during his address to Congress, describing the relationship between the UK and the U.S. as one of "extraordinary evolution." He highlighted the enduring bond, stating that the ties between the two nations were "unique and far-reaching."
"From overcoming conflict to forging one of the closest and most productive alliances the world has seen," the King wrote, "our shared roots run deep, and they are still vital." He expressed encouragement by the "enduring bond between our countries, and by the many connections between our peoples," which he observed firsthand during the April visit.
Looking toward the future, Charles expressed confidence that the two countries would "continue to defend our shared values." He specifically addressed environmental concerns, stating, "I also hold a deep appreciation of our shared responsibility to protect the natural world, knowing the decisions we take today will determine whether our critical natural systems will not just maintain the harmony and essential diversity of Nature, but also continue to provide the foundation for our prosperity and our national security for both present and future generations."
Trump has previously characterized Britain's net-zero policies as "stupid" and has spoken critically of wind turbines, including those near his golf course in Aberdeenshire.
The Royal Family's congratulatory post on X, formerly Twitter, included a video montage of highlights from the King and Queen's state visit, notably featuring the couple with President and Mrs. Trump on the White House balcony.
The Declaration of Independence, signed in Philadelphia in 1776, formally marked the separation of the U.S. from Britain. Its anniversary is observed annually on July 4th as Independence Day.