Trump hosts Dutch royals at the White House for dinner and overnight stay
Video. King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima of the Netherlands were received by US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump at the White House on Monday, 13 April 2026, for a formal dinner and overnight stay as part of their three-day visit to the United States.
Updated: 14/04/2026 - 9:17 GMT+2
King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima of the Netherlands were received by US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump at the White House on Monday, 13 April 2026, for a formal dinner and overnight stay as part of their three-day visit to the United States.
The royal couple arrived shortly after 7 p.m. under light rain and were received by President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump for a formal dinner and overnight stay. The meeting, though not a state visit, carries diplomatic weight as both countries seek closer cooperation on trade, defence and security.
The visit comes during a wider phase of European engagement with Washington, ahead of a planned UK royal visit later in April. Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten, 38, joined the dinner and official photos, signalling a pragmatic approach despite his earlier criticism of Trump.
Earlier on Monday, the royal couple visited Independence Hall in Philadelphia as part of the celebrations of the 250th anniversary of the United States. Analysts say the visit reflects the Netherlands’ role as a key European partner and underlines efforts to maintain stable transatlantic ties during a period of geopolitical tension.
