Donald Trump has faced accusations of “betraying” King Charles III after recent comments left many questioning whether he was subtly mocking his royal ally.

A Friendly Visit Turns Controversial

Just weeks ago, the 79-year-old U.S. president and First Lady Melania Trump were warmly received in the United Kingdom during a state visit. During that trip, Trump publicly praised King Charles, calling him a “great gentleman and a great King,” and spoke of the “special” bond between the U.S. and the UK.

However, Trump’s latest statement has sparked confusion, with critics suggesting he indirectly suggested that kings do not do any real work.

The Comment That Sparked Backlash

In an interview with Fox News, Trump said: “I’m not a King. I work my ass off to make our country great, that’s all it is. I’m not a King at all.”

The remark quickly gained traction online, with one social media user responding: “Kings don’t work???? That a nasty backstab to your good mate Charles!!!”

PRESIDENT TRUMP: “I’m not a king. I work my ass off to make our country great.” pic.twitter.com/Bf8xeBZbLC

— Fox News (@FoxNews) October 20, 2025

The Context Behind Trump’s Statement

Although many assumed Trump was targeting the British monarch, the comments were made in reference to ongoing “No Kings” protests in the United States. These demonstrations are not connected to King Charles, but are aimed at Trump himself, with protestors accusing him of aspiring to authoritarian power.

The first wave of “No Kings” protests took place on June 14—coinciding with Trump’s 79th birthday and the 250th Anniversary Parade of the US Army. Protest organizers use the term “No Kings” to push back against what they view as Trump’s increasingly authoritarian political stance.

A second wave of protests reportedly saw nearly seven million participants across the country last weekend, according to the Independent.

Trump Dismisses Protests

Discussing these demonstrations, Trump told reporters: “I think it’s a joke. I looked at the people. They are not representative of this country.

“I looked at all the brand new signs I guess paid for by [George] Soros and other radical left lunatics. It looks like it was. We’re checking it out. The demonstrations were very small, very ineffective. And the people were whacked out.”

Critics Accuse Trump of Mixed Messaging

Despite the explanation, some observers believe Trump’s insistence that he is “not a king” contradicts his previous behavior.

One Twitter user wrote: “Not a king, huh? Yet you’ve shared images of yourself wearing a crown, called for loyalty oaths from federal employees, and pushed executive orders that bypass Congress. Working hard doesn’t erase the erosion of democratic norms. Actions speak louder than words, Mr. President.”

Another user mockingly posted an AI-generated image of Trump wearing a crown, commenting: “Love this tweet from @WhiteHouse.”

A third added: “‘I’m not a king’ says the guy who posted an AI video of himself in a crown shitting on protesters. What a time to be alive.”

Tyla has reached out to both the White House and Buckingham Palace for comment. As of now, neither has issued a statement regarding Trump’s remarks.