Dutch Royals’ "unusual" planned White House overnight stay draws public criticism

King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima of the Netherlands will visit the United States from April 13 to April 15, traveling to Philadelphia, Washington D.C., and Miami, with a planned overnight stay at the White House with President Donald Trump. Prime Minister Rob Jetten will also attend a private dinner at the White House with Trump and First Lady Melania Trump. The White House overnight stay quickly drew public criticism in the Netherlands, NOS reported. A petition opposing the visit circulated shortly after it was announced, citing concerns over the war in the Middle East and Trump’s stance toward Europe.

Wim Voermans, professor of constitutional law, told NOS that declining a White House invitation could damage diplomatic relations. “The White House would become furious. The Netherlands and the EU could face consequences.” He also said the invitation reflects earlier diplomatic outreach tied to a NATO summit in the Netherlands.

Former Dutch ambassador Henne Schuwer called the overnight stay highly unusual. He said Queen Beatrix never slept at the White House and noted that guests typically stay in the Lincoln Bedroom, where former NATO chief Jaap de Hoop Scheffer previously stayed. Schuwer added that Prime Minister Jetten’s early access to Trump is diplomatically significant and useful for building relations.

Dutch political parties D66, CDA, and VVD supported the visit, describing it as standard diplomatic practice. PVV expressed support for Trump and said it hopes the king will speak positively about him.