Thousands sign petition urging King Charles to withdraw Trump invite

King Charles's decision to invite US President Donald Trump for a second state visit to the UK has sparked controversy, with an online petition urging the monarch to withdraw his invitation.

Launched in February 2025, the petition on Change.org has garnered over 50,000 signatures. The petition argues that Trump's actions have "shown disrespect for democracy and sovereignty, making him an unsuitable recipient of such honors."

"It's worth noting that each state visit by a U.S president tends to cost British taxpayers millions of pound," the petition said.

Petition starter Nick Bolding wrote, "Our country should stand with nations fighting for their democracy and sovereignty against unjust aggression, reflecting our historic commitment to global freedom and peace. To roll out the red carpet for someone who shows little respect for these values is contrary to our national interest."

Meanwhile,  Buckingham Palace on Wednesday confirmed that King Charles will host U.S. President Donald Trump for his unprecedented second state visit to Britain later this year.

Trump accepted an invitation from Charles for a second state visit in February, making the U.S. president the first elected political leader in modern times to be hosted for two state visits by a British monarch.

"Your country is a fantastic country and it'll be our honour to be there," Trump said after Prime Minister Keir Starmer handed him a handwritten letter from Charles in the Oval Office, describing the king as "a beautiful man".

No date was set at the time for the event which Britain hopes will help cement close ties between the two allies at a time of global upheaval, and one that is always marked by lavish displays of pomp and pageantry.

"His majesty has known President Trump for many years and looks forward to hosting him and the First Lady later this year," a Palace aide said.

Last week, the "Manu Regia", an official signed invitation from the monarch which signals the start of formal planning, was hand-delivered to the White House by British representatives, with confirmation of the exact date for the trip to follow.