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Charles III and Camilla Parker smiling, the man in a grey suit and blue tie, the woman in a blue dress, in an outdoor setting with vegetation in the background and a red exclamation mark icon in the lower right corner.
PEOPLE

The latest on Charles III and Queen Camilla: U-turn confirmed

Unexpected surprise at Buckingham Palace following Charles III's decision regarding the selection of the new Pope

A few days before the inauguration ceremony of the new Pope, Leo XIV, King Charles III has decided not to attend the Vatican. Although his presence was desired at this event, the British crown has opted to delegate representation to the Duke of Edinburgh, his younger brother. This decision has caused speculation about the monarch's health.

An unexpected change of plans from Buckingham

The ceremony, scheduled for May 18 at the Holy See, will bring together international leaders, as is customary in these events. However, Charles III will remain in the United Kingdom. So far, Buckingham Palace has not provided official explanations, but his absence from an event of such magnitude has raised inevitable questions.

An elderly man in a top hat and gray suit walks on grass while holding an umbrella, surrounded by elegantly dressed people.
The British monarch's health in the spotlight | @theroyalfamily, Instagram

Charles III's health, as he continues to undergo cancer treatment, is once again the center of attention. The British press suggests that the monarch might not be in optimal condition to undertake an international trip.

A historic event that will feature major absences

The new leader of the Catholic Church, Pope Leo XIV, was elected after the death of Pope Francis I. Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost assumed the papal name after receiving the majority of votes from the conclave and is preparing to take on his responsibilities. The inauguration represents not only a moment of spiritual transition but also a high-level diplomatic meeting.

A man in a naval uniform and an older woman are sitting in a stand decorated with flags.
Charles III won't attend the new Pope's inauguration | Europa Press

In this context, Charles III's absence has been interpreted by many as a sign of weakness or a strategy to avoid travel during his recovery process. The decision to send Prince Edward as the royal family's representative has been seen as a prudent measure, though not without concerns.

The ceremony will be attended by prominent political figures such as Donald Trump and Claudia Sheinbaum, among other world leaders. The absence of the British head of state could have significant symbolic implications, given the historical relations between the United Kingdom and the Vatican.

A man in a blue military uniform and a cap decorated with medals and golden cords.
King Charles III's figure remains key in the Institution | Europa Press

Charles III and his health: the issue that continues to worry

Since it became known that Charles III is undergoing cancer treatment, the monarch's public appearances have become limited and carefully selected. His decision to avoid long trips may be linked to medical recommendations or the desire to keep at rest. Although there is no recent official medical report, close sources have indicated that the monarch "isn't having it easy" and that traveling could pose a considerable effort at this time.

Charles III's absence in Rome only fuels the uncertainty surrounding his condition. The royal family continues to fulfill its institutional commitments through other members, such as Prince Edward or Queen Camilla. Despite this, the figure of the monarch remains central to the institution's stability.

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