King will not meet Epstein survivors on US visit

April 15, 2026

King Charles and Queen Camilla will undertake a state visit to the United States from April 27-30, during a period of strained UK-US relations stemming from disagreements over Iran policy and trade tensions. Palace officials have confirmed the royals will not meet with survivors of Jeffrey Epstein, citing concerns that such meetings could interfere with ongoing legal proceedings, despite calls from US lawmakers and victims' advocates for such an encounter. The visit aims to strengthen the historic partnership between the two nations and marks the 250th anniversary of American independence, with King Charles scheduled to address Congress only the second time a British monarch has done so.

Who is affected

King Charles and Queen Camilla
Survivors of Jeffrey Epstein, including Lisa Phillips and the family of Virginia Giuffre
President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer
US Congressman Ro Khanna
Representatives of domestic abuse and violence against women advocacy groups
Residents of Bermuda
Young people participating in habitat preservation programs in Bermuda

What action is being taken

King Charles and Queen Camilla are conducting a state visit to the US between April 27-30
The King is addressing Congress during the visit
Queen Camilla is meeting representatives of groups campaigning against domestic abuse and violence against women at some events
The King and Trump are holding a bilateral meeting
Queen Camilla and Melania Trump are carrying out an engagement together
After the US visit, the King is visiting Bermuda for three days

Why it matters

This state visit is significant because it occurs during an unusually tense period in UK-US relations, with disagreements over Iran policy and trade tariffs creating friction between the governments. The visit serves as a diplomatic tool to help mend and strengthen the long-standing "special relationship" between the two nations, similar to how Queen Elizabeth II helped repair ties after the Suez Crisis in 1957. The trip also commemorates the 250th anniversary of American independence and provides an opportunity for the monarchy to play a unique stabilizing role in international relations that transcends individual political administrations. The decision not to meet Epstein survivors, while controversial, reflects the Palace's priority on not interfering with ongoing legal proceedings.

What's next

King Charles will deliver a speech to Congress
After leaving the US, the King will visit Bermuda
In Bermuda, the King will attend a museum exhibition on the island's connection to the transatlantic slave trade
The King plans to meet youngsters participating in a "living classroom" habitat preservation program in Bermuda
The King will then return to the UK

Read full article from source: BBC