Trump's UK Visit: Pomp, Pageantry, and Protests Amid Diplomatic Tensions
September 10, 2025
On September 18, former President Donald Trump will undertake a highly anticipated state visit to the UK, including stops at Chequers and Windsor Castle, where he will meet Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and engage in a series of traditional ceremonies and unique military displays.
The visit will feature a carriage procession through Windsor, a state banquet at St George's Hall, and a private wreath-laying ceremony at Queen Elizabeth II's tomb, emphasizing the pageantry and diplomatic significance of the event.
This visit is notable for its elaborate military and ceremonial events, such as a flypast by the Red Arrows and F-35 jets, and a Beating Retreat spectacle—activities not previously used for an incoming state visit.
Windsor Castle is being used for the visit due to ongoing refurbishment at Buckingham Palace, and the royal family, including Queen Elizabeth II, will be involved, with Melania Trump engaging with the Queen and Kate Middleton.
The event is expected to draw protests, including demonstrations in London under the slogan 'Trump Not Welcome,' reflecting ongoing disagreements over climate, foreign policy, and Trump's controversial remarks.
Despite the protests, the visit will maintain traditional pomp, with military escorts, bands, and ceremonial events, although there will be no public visits to Westminster Abbey or Parliament.
The visit is considered sensitive, given Trump's previous controversial comments and the potential for diplomatic tensions, with some leaders, like Labour's Starmer, seeking to use royal pomp to influence concessions in ongoing trade disputes.
Notably, the visit will include a carriage procession through Windsor, a feature not possible during Trump's first visit due to security concerns in London.
The event will also involve prominent US tech and finance leaders, such as Jensen Huang and Sam Altman, who are expected to discuss trade, AI, and investment opportunities with Trump.
The visit concludes with farewell ceremonies at Chequers and Windsor Castle, marking the end of this significant diplomatic event, with no planned public visits to Parliament or Westminster Abbey.
This visit is unusual because US presidents serving a second term typically do not receive a full state visit, instead opting for more private engagements, making Trump's trip particularly noteworthy.
The invitation was extended by King Charles during a White House visit in February, and Trump has expressed that he considers this a great honor, highlighting the diplomatic importance of the event.
Summary based on 21 sources
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Sources

BBC News • Sep 10, 2025
Trump will visit late Queen's tomb during UK state visit
The Independent • Sep 10, 2025
Trump to meet the King and Queen during shortened UK state visit next week
The Independent • Sep 10, 2025
Itinerary released for Trump’s second state visit to the UK
Newsweek • Sep 10, 2025
Donald Trump's Second Royal Visit Will Have Major Difference