Donald Trump’s Response to King Harald of Norway’s Death Is Turning Heads
Norway’s King Harald died last week at the age of 89. President Donald Trump has now spoken publicly about his passing.
The country was plunged into mourning on Friday when King Harald V died at 89. The widely cherished monarch passed away peacefully at 6:35 a.m. local time at Oslo’s National Hospital.
He had entered the hospital a week earlier to receive care for a rare blood disorder. The Norwegian Royal Palace announced his death, closing the chapter on the life and reign of one of the nation’s most beloved monarchs.
Donald Trump responds to King Harald’s passing
Flags throughout Norway were brought down to half-mast, while church bells sounded across the country.
Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store said one era had come to a close and another was beginning, invoking the traditional words honoring a deceased monarch and his successor.
Harald’s son, 53-year-old Crown Prince Haakon, has succeeded him and is now King Haakon VIII.
Since the announcement, messages of sympathy have arrived from royal families and international leaders. U.S. President Donald Trump has now joined those paying tribute to the late king.
In a Truth Social post, Trump characterized King Harald as strong, proud and deeply respected. He also emphasized Harald’s devotion to Norway and the affection and esteem he received from the Norwegian public.
Trump wrote that he was deeply saddened to learn of King Harald’s passing, calling him a proud and highly respected man who loved his country and was genuinely loved by his people. He said the thoughts of Americans were with the Royal Family and all of Norway during the difficult period, and described the king’s death as an enormous loss.
Sweden’s King Carl Gustaf also offers tribute
Trump was not the only prominent figure to honor Norway’s late monarch. Sweden’s King Carl XVI Gustaf also released an emotional statement after Harald’s death.
He recalled King Harald as an exceptional ambassador for Norway, both in his duties as head of state and through his accomplishments as an athlete.
The Swedish king also reflected warmly on their personal bond. He said Harald had been a loyal friend to him, to his family and to Sweden over many years.
King Carl Gustaf extended his most heartfelt condolences to Queen Sonja and the entire Norwegian royal family as they grieve the death of a deeply loved husband, father and grandfather.
May King Harald rest in peace.
