Resolve seen after 9/11 attacks needed for Ukraine: King Charles tells US Congress

Addressing lawmakers in Washington, King Charles said the "unyielding resolve" seen after 9/11 was "needed for the defense of Ukraine and her most courageous people ... in order to secure a truly just and lasting peace."

In Short

• King Charles urged US Congress to support Ukraine with 9/11-like resolve
• Stressed Europe-US cooperation vital amid global security challenges
• Condemns White House Correspondents’ Dinner shooting

Britain’s King Charles III addressed a joint session of the US Congress on Tuesday during his state visit, delivering a clear message that the same determination shown by the United States after the September 11 attacks is now needed to support Ukraine. He framed the moment as one of global uncertainty, where unity and resolve could shape the course of ongoing conflicts.

Addressing lawmakers in Washington, he said the "unyielding resolve" seen after 9/11 was "needed for the defense of Ukraine and her most courageous people ... in order to secure a truly just and lasting peace."

The King emphasised that cooperation between Europe and the United States remains critical in the current global climate. He described the transatlantic alliance as "more important today than it has ever been", pointing to shared security challenges and the need for coordinated action.

He also stressed that the UK is stepping up its role. "The United Kingdom recognises that the threats we face demand a transformation in British defence," he said, noting that Britain is increasing defence spending to meet emerging risks.

Referencing history, he reminded lawmakers how the UK stood alongside the US after 9/11, including support under Nato's collective defence clause. "We stood with you then and we stand with you now in solemn remembrance of a day that shall never be forgotten," he said, prompting a standing ovation.

NATO, SECURITY AND SHARED RESPONSIBILITY

The King also highlighted the importance of Nato, noting that the alliance invoked its Article 5 defence clause only once — in response to the 2001 attacks on the US.

Drawing on remarks by Henry Kissinger, he spoke of the enduring "Atlantic partnership" and the need to strengthen it further. He pointed to defence and intelligence cooperation as key pillars of that partnership, referencing his own experience serving in the Royal Navy. His comments came at a time when questions have been raised about burden-sharing and military commitments among allies.

KING CHARLES CONDEMNS WHCD SHOOTING

He also condemned recent violence in Washington, including the attempted attack at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner. "Whatever our differences, whatever disagreements we may have, we stand united in our commitment to uphold democracy, to protect all our people from harm," he said.

"Let me say with unshakeable resolve, such acts of violence will never succeed," he added.

King Charles becomes only the second British monarch to address the US Congress, following Queen Elizabeth II in 1991. He described the US Capitol as a symbol of shared heritage and used a literary reference to underline historic ties.

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