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Royal trip avoids Epstein victim encounters
King Charles III and Queen Camilla will not meet survivors of convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein during their upcoming US state visit, Buckingham Palace confirmed on Tuesday. The decision comes amid growing pressure from campaigners and US lawmakers.
Queen to focus on domestic abuse advocacy
Queen Camilla is expected to engage with representatives from organizations combating domestic abuse and violence against women during the April 27-30 trip. The Queen has been a vocal advocate on these issues, recently addressing survivors at a St James's Palace reception.
"To every survivor of every kind of violence, many of whom have not been able to tell their stories or who have not been believed, please know that you are not alone."
Queen Camilla
Palace cites legal risks for decision
A palace source stated that meeting Epstein survivors could interfere with ongoing police investigations and potential legal proceedings, ultimately harming victims' pursuit of justice. The source acknowledged the survivors' perspective but reiterated the need to avoid actions that might jeopardize their cases.
Calls for the royals to meet Epstein victims have intensified in recent weeks, led by US Congressman Ro Khanna, survivor Lisa Phillips, and the family of Virginia Giuffre, who died last year.
Diplomatic tensions loom over visit
The state visit occurs against a backdrop of strained UK-US relations, particularly over disagreements on the Iran conflict. A Foreign Office spokeswoman emphasized the trip's role in reinforcing a partnership that has "survived many presidencies and reigns."
Sir Keir Starmer, the UK Prime Minister, previously described mature alliances as those that address differences "directly, respectfully, and with a focus on results." The visit marks the 250th anniversary of US independence and aims to celebrate "shared prosperity, security, and history."
Itinerary highlights bilateral ties
The King will deliver only the second-ever royal address to the US Congress, following Queen Elizabeth II's speech in 1991. His itinerary includes a bilateral meeting with President Donald Trump, while Queen Camilla and Melania Trump will participate in a joint engagement.
Media access to unscripted conversations between the King and Trump will be limited, reflecting the visit's tightly controlled nature. Observers note the contrast between the two leaders' personalities and approaches.
Post-US visit to Bermuda
After the US trip, King Charles will make his first visit as monarch to Bermuda, a British Overseas Territory. He is scheduled to attend an exhibition on Bermuda's history, including its ties to the transatlantic slave trade, and meet young participants in a local habitat preservation project.
A Buckingham Palace spokesperson described the visit as an opportunity to "reaffirm and renew bilateral ties" amid global challenges, emphasizing the UK's national interest in strengthening the alliance.
