Prince William Views Trump Relationship as Key to Monarchy's Future: Expert

Prince William appears to be taking a page out of Queen Elizabeth II’s playbook by nurturing a strong connection with the United States. And in an unexpected twist, former President Donald Trump seems to be a central figure in this effort.

According to a source quoted by The Telegraph, the Prince of Wales is keen on maintaining and strengthening the "special relationship" between the UK and the US. This relationship, famously emphasized by Winston Churchill, seems to have found a surprising modern-day champion in Trump, with William reportedly considering his rapport with the former president "key" to ensuring Britain's global relevance.

Shannon Felton Spence, a former British public affairs official, told Fox News Digital that this is part of William’s preparation for the throne. "It’s a test of his ability to engage with world leaders, even those he may not personally align with," Spence said. "The queen did this for 70 years — now it’s his turn."

Trump, who has been vocal about his disdain for Prince Harry’s decisions, has instead lavished praise on William, calling him a "great young man." The two even met in December in Paris during the reopening of the Notre Dame Cathedral. Their meeting reportedly included reminiscing about Queen Elizabeth II, who passed away in 2022.

For William, this budding relationship isn’t about politics but diplomacy. "It’s about ensuring Britain remains relevant in Trump’s Washington," Spence emphasized. The prince’s approach is seen as a continuation of the monarchy’s hallmark style of quiet, behind-the-scenes diplomacy — a skill Queen Elizabeth II mastered over decades.

Interestingly, Trump’s admiration for the British monarchy traces back to his mother, Mary Trump, who was a staunch monarchist. His respect for the institution is evident in his warm interactions with the royal family, including the late queen and now King Charles III, who has reportedly maintained a correspondence with Trump over the years.

Hilary Fordwich, a royal expert, noted that Trump’s family values align with William’s. She also commented on the former president’s harsh criticism of Harry, whom he accused of betraying the late queen, describing such actions as "unforgivable." Trump even took a jab at Meghan Markle, saying, "She’s terrible." Subtlety clearly isn’t his strong suit.

Despite Trump’s polarizing nature, experts agree that his fondness for William — and vice versa — could have significant implications for US-UK relations. "A friendship between William and Trump may not directly influence policy, but it keeps Britain top of mind," Spence said. And in Trump’s world, personal relationships often take precedence over formal diplomatic channels.

Meanwhile, Prince Harry remains a contentious figure, especially after revelations in his memoir "Spare" sparked legal challenges over his immigration status in the US. Trump has made no secret of his preference for William, aligning himself with the future king while dismissing Harry as a "celebrity."

Royal watchers have noted that William’s diplomatic efforts mirror the queen’s legacy of fostering relationships with US presidents. Helena Chard, a British broadcaster, highlighted how Elizabeth II taught William leadership skills from an early age, preparing him for his eventual role as king.

As for the monarchy’s future, experts believe William’s strategy of building relationships with influential leaders like Trump underscores the importance of soft power. "In a time when US alliances are shifting, the monarchy’s soft power is proving not just relevant but essential," Spence noted.

King Charles III has also reportedly maintained a "carefully, quietly" cultivated relationship with Trump, continuing the royal family’s tradition of engaging with American leaders. Whether this will pay off in the long run is yet to be seen, but it’s clear the Windsors are playing the long game.