US President Donald Trump landed in the United Kingdom on Tuesday for a historic second state visit, marking a rare diplomatic honour extended to an American leader.
Trump, 79, touched down at Stansted Airport aboard Air Force One, accompanied by his wife, Melania Trump. The couple received a formal guard of honour, with full ceremonial welcome as the UK government rolled out the red carpet in a bid to reaffirm transatlantic ties.
“It’s going to be a very big thing,” Trump told reporters during the flight from Washington, D.C.
Trump becomes the first US president to be invited for two state visits by the British monarchy. His last royal visit was in 2019, hosted by the late Queen Elizabeth II. This time, King Charles III will welcome the president with a banquet and a traditional carriage ride at Windsor Castle on Wednesday.
“Charles, as you know, who’s now king, is my friend,” Trump said before his departure. “He’s such an elegant gentleman and he represents the country so well.”
On Thursday, Trump is scheduled to meet UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer at the Prime Minister’s official countryside residence. The leaders are expected to discuss key issues including US-UK relations, global trade, and defence cooperation.
Security measures are stringent, especially around Windsor Castle, where the bulk of Trump’s itinerary is taking place to avoid major protests in central London. Nonetheless, several dozen anti-Trump protesters gathered on Windsor High Street Tuesday evening, holding placards and chanting slogans near the castle gates.
Despite the planned protests, Trump’s supporters argue that the visit symbolizes renewed cooperation between the US and UK under conservative leadership.
