Dutch King and Queen to Sleep at White House Despite Public Criticism
Dutch King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima will spend Monday night at the White House with President Trump. The overnight stay has sparked criticism from Dutch lawmakers and citizens who question the visit during a time of strained U.S.-Europe relations.
Dutch King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima will become the latest European royals to stay overnight at the White House when they visit President Trump on Monday. The sleepover arrangement has drawn unusual public criticism in the Netherlands.
Socialist Party lawmaker Sarah Dobbe strongly opposed the visit, saying "Trump has started an illegal war, threatens NATO allies, and threatens to destroy a civilization." Other Dutch lawmakers have expressed unease about the symbolic weight of having their royals stay with Trump.
The overnight stay breaks with some past traditions. Queen Beatrix, the current king's mother, never slept at the White House during her reign. Foreign dignitaries who do stay typically use the Lincoln Bedroom, where former NATO chief Jaap de Hoop Scheffer previously stayed.
The visit comes as Trump is also planning his own stay at the Dutch king's palace during an upcoming NATO summit, creating what officials call a diplomatic exchange of hospitality. However, the timing coincides with broader tensions between the U.S. and European allies over various policy issues.
The visit shows how European allies are navigating relationships with Trump despite policy disagreements. It highlights growing tension between traditional diplomacy and public opinion about controversial world leaders.
The royal visit happens Monday. Trump's reciprocal stay at the Dutch palace during the NATO summit will follow.
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