President Trump Invited to UK State Banquet

President Donald Trump has extended a formal invitation to Dame Karen Pierce, the former British ambassador to the US, to attend a prestigious state banquet at Windsor Castle.

Trump is scheduled to visit the UK later this month for his second official state trip, with King Charles and other royal family members preparing to host him on September 17.

According to reports, Trump personally reached out to Pierce, inviting her to the event. Pierce, who served as ambassador from 2020 until February 2025 and has previously represented the UK at the United Nations, is regarded as one of the UK’s most valuable diplomatic assets.

If Pierce accepts, she will likely meet Lord Peter Mandelson, the current British ambassador to the US, who is expected to attend as part of the British delegation. Mandelson, previously a critic of Trump, has expressed that Trump will receive a warm welcome, noting Trump’s admiration for Britain.

Trump’s visit coincides with a period when the UK Parliament is in recess, meaning he will not address Parliament—unlike French President Emmanuel Macron, who visited earlier this summer. The palace has not publicly explained the specific timing of the visit, but some MPs had previously urged the House of Commons to refuse Trump the honor of addressing Parliament.

Despite initial criticism, Mandelson anticipates that Trump will be welcomed warmly, citing the president’s genuine admiration for Britain. Trump himself has expressed enthusiasm, stating, “It’ll be our honor to be there,” emphasizing his positive feelings towards the UK and King Charles.

The planning for the visit began with a handwritten invitation from King Charles, delivered to Trump at the White House in June. Trump accepted the invitation during a February meeting with the UK Prime Minister in Washington, expressing eagerness to honor the King and the UK.