King, Queen Host Macron UK State Visit First EU Leader Since Brexit

French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife, Brigitte, have arrived in the UK for a three-day state visit, the first by a European Union leader since Brexit and the first French state visit since 2008. They were warmly welcomed at RAF Northolt by the Prince and Princess of Wales and later met King Charles and Queen Camilla at Windsor Castle, which is hosting the visit due to renovations at Buckingham Palace. The visit features traditional ceremonies including a carriage procession, gun salutes, and a state banquet where King Charles is expected to emphasize the importance of UK-France unity amid complex global threats. President Macron will address both Houses of Parliament and participate in a UK-France summit focused on strengthening cooperation, including discussions on European defense and curbing small boat crossings across the English Channel. The visit marks a significant moment in UK-French relations, with the UK government seeking increased French support as part of a broader coalition aiding Ukraine. The event is seen as an effort to repair and reinforce ties between the two neighbors following recent political challenges.