Buckingham Palace reassures public as King Charles returns from historic but unusually short tour while undergoing cancer treatment
King Charles returned to the United Kingdom on Tuesday following a notably brief yet significant visit to Canada, which sparked renewed concerns over his health.
The trip marked Charles’s first tour to Canada as monarch and was historic in nature—he became the first sovereign in 68 years to open the Canadian Parliament. Despite the ceremonial importance, the visit lasted only 20 hours, prompting speculation among royal commentators.
Veteran observers noted the unusually short duration of the visit, given the King's ongoing cancer treatment. Royal commentator Tom Sykes of the Daily Beast remarked that such brevity in royal tours was “not normal,” fuelling unease about the King's condition.
In response to the growing concern, Buckingham Palace offered reassurance. A senior aide told The Telegraph that Charles is coping “incredibly well” with his illness.
“You learn to manage this illness—that’s what he does,” the aide stated. “Medical science has made incredible advances, and I genuinely see no difference in him.”
The aide added that Charles is following medical advice closely and continuing with life as normally as possible, reflecting a steady approach to his treatment and duties.
According to royal sources, Charles’s schedule and medical regimen remained “unaffected” by the visit. Officials confirmed that arrangements had been carefully tailored to support the King's health and ensure his timely return to the UK for treatment.
