King Charles the Third and President Donald Trump shared lighthearted moments during speeches at a state dinner held on the second day of the British monarch’s visit to the United States. Trump praised the King for prompting members of the Democratic Party to stand during his address to Congress, drawing laughter from guests.

The King responded with a series of jokes of his own, touching on topics including tensions in the Middle East, stories about Winston Churchill’s time at the White House, and recent changes made to the presidential residence. He also made a playful historical reference to Britain’s past rivalry with France in North America, suggesting that without British influence, Americans might be speaking French today.

The exchange underscored the friendly tone of the evening, blending diplomacy with humor as both leaders highlighted the long-standing relationship between their two nations.