King Charles III gave U.S. President Donald Trump a dose of his own rhetoric during a White House state dinner on Tuesday, joking that without British efforts, Americans might be speaking French.
As both leaders exchanged light-hearted remarks in their dinner toasts, Charles alluded to Trump’s past criticism of European allies, whom he has accused of relying too heavily on U.S. defense support since World War II. “You recently said, Mr. President, that without the United States, Europe would be speaking German,” Charles noted, before adding with a smile, “Dare I suggest that if it weren’t for us, you’d be speaking French.”
The remark drew laughter from the assembled guests and highlighted the unique bond between the United Kingdom and the United States. It also served as a gentle rebuttal to Trump’s often blunt assessments of European contributions to global security.
King Charles’ toast underscored the historical alliance between the two nations, emphasizing shared values and cooperation. The dinner was part of a series of engagements during the British monarch’s visit to Washington, aimed at strengthening bilateral ties.
