King Charles III to Deliver Throne Speech in Ottawa Amid U.S. Annexation Talk

Last Updated May - 26 - 2025, 05:28 PM | Source : Fela News

King Charles III will visit Ottawa to deliver Canada’s throne speech, reinforcing national sovereignty amid U.S. annexation remarks by President Trump. The visi

King Charles III is set to arrive in Ottawa this week to reinforce Canada’s sovereignty in light of repeated remarks by the U.S. President Donald Trump suggesting the annexation of Canada. In response, Prime Minister Mark Carney has invited the king to deliver the speech from the throne, which outlines the government's legislative agenda. As head of state of Canada, a constitutional monarchy and member of the British Commonwealth, King Charles’ involvement aims to highlight Canada’s distinct identity.

“This is a defining moment in Canada’s history, a time of major transformation in global trade,” Carney told his caucus, adding that “the sovereign is a strong symbol of our independence.” The king’s role in delivering the speech is highly unusual—his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, did so only twice during her 70-year reign, last in 1977.

Although Canadians are generally indifferent to the monarchy, Carney has used the king’s visit to draw a clear contrast between Canada and the U.S. Unlike the U.S., which gained independence through revolution, Canada evolved into a nation within a constitutional monarchy in 1867.

Former Quebec Premier Jean Charest emphasized that Charles’ role reflects Canada’s unique historical path. Meanwhile, U.S. Ambassador Pete Hoekstra downplayed the symbolism, suggesting diplomatic communication should remain direct.

Royal historian Carolyn Harris noted Trump is likely to take interest, given his known admiration for the royal family. She emphasized that Charles will appear distinctly as the Canadian monarch, accompanied by national symbols and the RCMP.

The speech, scheduled for Tuesday, will be written by the Canadian government, as the king serves in a ceremonial, nonpartisan role. Royal expert Justin Vovk noted Charles must carefully navigate his role across the 15 Commonwealth realms.

Tensions escalated when the U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer extended a state visit invitation to Trump on the king’s behalf, angering Canadians amid sovereignty concerns. Carney told Sky News that the timing and gesture were poorly received.

Recently, Charles has shown stronger support for Canada, such as wearing Canadian military honors. His visit includes dropping the ceremonial puck at a street hockey game, attending community events, meeting with Carney and the governor general, and paying respects at the National War Memorial before returning to the U.K.