Trump set for rare second state visit to UK
LONDON, July 15: Donald Trump will make an unprecedented second state visit to the United Kingdom from September 17 to 19. The visit, confirmed by Buckingham Palace, will be hosted by King Charles III and Queen Camilla at Windsor Castle. This marks the first time a U.S. president has been invited for a second official state visit, breaking long-standing diplomatic precedent. Traditionally, returning U.S. presidents who have already had a state visit are only hosted for informal meetings, such as tea or lunch with the monarch — as seen in the cases of George W. Bush and Barack Obama.
Trump, who is a strong supporter of the British royal family and particularly of King Charles, will be accompanied by his wife, Melania Trump. He previously visited the UK for a state visit in 2019 during his first term, when he was hosted by Queen Elizabeth II. The invitation for this upcoming visit was personally delivered to Trump by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer during a meeting at the White House in February. Trump expressed great enthusiasm, calling it a “great, great honour,” and seemed especially pleased to be staying at Windsor Castle.
The visit is widely viewed as a strategic diplomatic move by Prime Minister Starmer to maintain a positive relationship with Trump, potentially to shield the UK from economic pressures such as U.S. tariffs. The UK’s relationship with Trump appears more cordial than that of many other allies, some of whom are facing harsher trade measures.
However, the decision to extend a second state visit has drawn criticism, particularly from members of Starmer’s own Labour Party. Critics cite Trump’s vocal support for Israel’s war in Gaza and his controversial comments about Canada and Greenland. His remarks have raised concerns about the sovereignty of allies — a particularly sensitive issue as King Charles is also head of state for Canada.
Trump’s previous state visit sparked large-scale protests, including the now-famous blimp depicting him as an angry orange baby. Similar public opposition is expected this time around.
Due to extensive renovations at Buckingham Palace, most events will be hosted at Windsor Castle, continuing a recent trend set during the state visit of French President Emmanuel Macron. The visit will include traditional ceremonial elements such as a royal banquet, military review, and carriage procession, underscoring the enduring significance of UK–US ties. (AP)