In a display of diplomatic wit and historic levity, King Charles III playfully roasted US President Donald Trump during a White House state dinner on Tuesday. The British monarch suggested that, had it not been for British intervention in North America, Americans might currently be speaking French.

The light-hearted exchange occurred as both leaders affirmed the strength of the “special relationship” between the United Kingdom (UK) and the United States (US). The remark served as a direct response to the President’s previous comments regarding European allies and the history of global conflict.