London: King Charles used the power of the podium at the US Congress to deliver a gentle but compelling message to Donald Trump and the American people about the value of remembering their friends.

The King’s address was serious, persuasive and incredibly sly in the way it told the US president what his many critics think he needs to hear.

King Charles addressing the US Congress on Tuesday (Washington time). Getty Images

But even a superb speech, surrounded by the high ceremony of a state visit, will not be enough to restore the “special relationship” between Britain and America when Trump is unlikely to listen.

This was a very clever speech. At a time of war with Iran, the King spoke of fostering compassion and promoting peace. At a time of concern about presidential power, he spoke of the Magna Carta and its core principle that executive power is subject to checks and balances.…