Across the globe, the death of Queen Elizabeth II has prompted reflections on the historic sweep of her reign and how she succeeded in presiding over the end of Britain’s colonial empire and embracing the independence of her former dominions.
Tributes to the queen’s life have poured in, from world leaders to rock stars to ordinary people.
Former President Donald Trump himself released a statement Thursday on the queen’s passing.
“Melania and I are deeply saddened to learn of the loss of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II,” Trump’s statement, posted on his social media website Truth Social, read. “Together with our family and fellow Americans, we send our sincere condolences to the Royal Family and the people of the United Kingdom during this time of great sorrow and grief.”
“Queen Elizabeth’s historic and remarkable reign left a tremendous legacy of peace and prosperity for Great Britain,” the 45th president continued. “Her leadership and enduring diplomacy secured and advanced alliances with the United States and countries around the world. However, she will always be remembered for her faithfulness to her country and her unwavering devotion to her fellow countrymen and women.”
“Melania and I will always cherish our time together with the Queen, and never forget Her Majesty’s generous friendship, great wisdom, and wonderful sense of humor,” he wrote. “What a grand and beautiful lady she was—there was nobody like her!”
“Our thoughts and prayers will remain with the great people of the United Kingdom as you honor her most meaningful life and exceptional service to the people,” Trump said. “May God bless the Queen, may she reign forever in our hearts, and may God hold her and Prince Philip in abiding care.”
Trump also paid tribute to the new monarch of the United Kingdom, King Charles III.
“King Charles III, who I have gotten to know well, will be a Great and Wonderful King,” Trump declared. “He dearly loves the United Kingdom and all that it represents to the World. He will prove to be an inspiration to everyone.”
“Queen Elizabeth has been, and will be from above, very proud of King Charles III.”
In his first statement to the United Kingdom, King Charles III says he feels “profound sorrow” at the death of his mother Queen Elizabeth II, and has vowed to carry on her “lifelong service” to the nation.
Charles is making his first address to Britain and the Commonwealth as monarch. He became king on Thursday after the queen’s death.
“That promise of lifelong service I renew to all today,” he said.
His speech was broadcast on television and streamed at St. Paul’s Cathedral, where some 2,000 people were attending a service of remembrance for the queen.
Mourners at the service included Prime Minister Liz Truss and members of her government.
The Associated Press contributed to this article.