Former US President Donald Trump arrived in the United Kingdom on Tuesday evening for a state visit, accompanied by his wife, Melania Trump. They were welcomed by the US Ambassador, Warren Stephens.
On Wednesday morning, the Prince and Princess of Wales greeted the Trumps at Windsor Castle. A formal ceremony with King Charles and Queen Camilla followed. Because Buckingham Palace was undergoing repairs, Windsor Castle hosted the events instead. A royal salute was fired both in Windsor and at the Tower of London. Later, UK and US jets, along with the Red Arrows, performed a flypast.
That evening, a grand state banquet was held at the castle. Both King Charles and Mr Trump delivered speeches.
On Thursday, Mr Trump met Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer at Chequers, the prime minister’s official country home in Buckinghamshire. Meanwhile, Melania Trump remained at Windsor Castle, where she joined the Princess of Wales and Chief Scout Dwayne Fields to discuss scouting. She later reunited with her husband before they returned to the United States.
A state visit is one of the highest honours the UK can give to a foreign leader. These visits are not only ceremonial but also help strengthen political and cultural ties.
Mr Trump’s first state visit in 2019 saw large protests in London. This time, opinions were again divided. Some politicians criticised the invitation due to disagreements with Mr Trump’s views, while others, including Prime Minister Starmer, said it was important to maintain strong ties with America.
