President Joe Biden said he was “concerned” for King Charles III after Buckingham Palace announced he had been diagnosed with cancer.
In his first comments on the 75-year-old British monarch's health, Biden told that he would speak to him soon, “God willing.”
“I'll call him right away,” Biden said: “I'm worried about him.” Just heard about his diagnosis.'
The president learned of Charles' shock diagnosis before meeting with kitchen workers in Las Vegas, Nevada.
He answered questions less than two hours after the palace announced in a statement Monday evening that the king had cancer.
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President Joe Biden said he was “concerned” for King Charles III after Buckingham Palace announced he had been diagnosed with cancer. They are pictured together at Windsor Castle in July last year
The 75-year-old monarch has returned to London from Sandringham to begin treatment immediately.
It is not related to his recent surgery and is not prostate cancer, but doctors discovered it when he underwent medical surgery for an enlarged prostate.
The king is said to have personally informed his sons Prince William and Prince Harry about his condition.
Harry will fly from the US to London in the “coming days” to support his father as he begins treatment.
Biden last met King Charles at Windsor Castle in July. These were the first discussions since the coronation in May.
The couple shook hands and smiled in the historic quadrangle before having a discussion about climate change.
Biden did not attend the coronation, but had a 30-minute phone call with Charles that led to an invitation for a state visit to the United Kingdom.
In his first comments on the 75-year-old British monarch's health, Biden told that “God willing” he hopes to speak to him soon
Biden last met King Charles at Windsor Castle in July. These were the first discussions since the coronation in May
Instead, First Lady Jill Biden and her granddaughter Finnegan attended the ceremony as representatives of the United States
Buckingham Palace said in a statement on Monday: “Another problem was noted during the King's recent hospital procedure for benign prostate enlargement.” Subsequent diagnostic tests have identified a type of cancer.
“His Majesty began a regular treatment plan today, during which he was advised by doctors to postpone public duties.” During this time, His Majesty will continue to conduct state business and official paperwork as usual.
“The King is grateful to his medical team for the rapid intervention made possible thanks to his recent hospital procedure.”
“He remains completely positive about his treatment and looks forward to returning to full public service as soon as possible.”
“His Majesty has decided to share his diagnosis to avoid speculation and in the hope that it may contribute to the public’s understanding of all people affected by cancer around the world.”
The king also apologized for having to postpone his upcoming appointments.
A spokesman added: “Regrettably, some of the King's upcoming public appearances will have to be rearranged or postponed.”
“His Majesty would like to apologize to anyone who may be disappointed or inconvenienced by this.”
A source close to the Duke announced that Prince Harry would visit his father, saying: “The Duke has spoken to his father about his diagnosis.”
“He will travel to the UK to see His Majesty in the coming days.”
All of the king's siblings, the Princess Royal, the Duke of York and the Duke of Edinburgh, were personally informed by Charles, royal advisers said.