Former President Donald Trump has expressed interest in the possibility of the United States joining the Commonwealth of Nations, following reports that King Charles III might extend an invitation during Trump’s upcoming state visit to the United Kingdom. Trump shared an article from The Sun on his Truth Social platform, responding with enthusiasm to the idea of an associate membership.
Reports allege that the British monarch could make the offer during the visit as a symbolic gesture to strengthen relations between the two nations. The Commonwealth, an intergovernmental organization formed in 1926, consists of 56 countries, including Canada, Australia, and India, many of which were once British colonies. The U.S. was part of the British Empire until it declared independence in 1776. While membership is voluntary, India set a precedent by remaining within the Commonwealth after gaining independence in 1947.
Trump has had a longstanding admiration for the British royal family. During his first state visit in 2019, he met with Queen Elizabeth II and then-Prince Charles. He has spoken highly of the late queen, describing her as a remarkable leader who never made mistakes and praising Prince William.
Reports suggest that Trump initiated discussions about U.S. Commonwealth membership during his first term in office. This time, proponents argue that such a move could help ease tensions between the United States and Canada, particularly amid ongoing trade disputes.
Last month, during a visit to the White House, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer personally delivered an invitation from King Charles regarding a second state visit to Trump, underscoring the close ties between the two nations. During the meeting, Starmer emphasized the importance of the U.S.-UK relationship and expressed hope that the upcoming visit would build on the success of the 2019 state visit. President Trump responded favorably, stating he and Melania Trump were honored by the invitation and looked forward to visiting Britain again.
The topic of U.S. Commonwealth membership is likely to be a point of interest during Trump’s visit. While no formal decision has yet been made, the possibility has sparked discussions about historical ties, diplomacy, and trade relations between the U.S. and the United Kingdom.
