Trump’s Historic Second State Visit to the U.K. Sparks Protests and Controversy

U.S. President Donald Trump has arrived in the United Kingdom for a historic second state visit, an event marked by both grand royal ceremony and intense public opposition. The visit, hosted by King Charles III, underscores the strength of the U.S.–U.K. “special relationship” but has ignited widespread protests across London and Windsor.

A Royal Welcome at Windsor Castle

Trump was formally welcomed at Windsor Castle on September 17, 2025, with full state honors. The day included a military parade, a horse-drawn carriage procession, and a state banquet hosted by the King. Trump also laid a wreath at the tomb of Queen Elizabeth II, highlighting the continuity of ties between the two nations.

This marks Trump as the first U.S. president ever to receive two state visit invitations, following his 2019 visit under Queen Elizabeth II. The unprecedented gesture reflects the U.K.’s intention to strengthen diplomatic and economic cooperation, particularly in trade and security.

Protests Erupt Across London and Windsor

Despite the lavish ceremony, the visit was met with large-scale protests. Thousands of demonstrators filled the streets of London carrying signs reading “Trump Not Welcome” and “No to Racism.” In Windsor, activists projected images of Trump alongside Jeffrey Epstein onto parts of the castle walls, resulting in several arrests.

Over 1,600 police officers were deployed to maintain security, with aerial restrictions and heightened surveillance in place. The protests were organized by groups ranging from anti-racism activists to pro-Palestinian organizations, united in their opposition to Trump’s policies and rhetoric.

Divisions in Public Opinion

The decision to invite Trump for a second state visit has proven divisive in the U.K. While the government and royal family emphasize the importance of transatlantic ties, critics argue that celebrating Trump with royal honors sends the wrong message.

London Mayor Sadiq Khan was among the outspoken critics, saying the visit does not reflect the values of many Britons. Opinion polls suggest a significant portion of the public disapproves of the red-carpet treatment.

Diplomatic Stakes

For the U.K., the visit is more than symbolic. Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s government is seeking closer cooperation with Washington on trade deals, technology investments, and joint strategies on global conflicts. Trump, for his part, is using the visit to project international statesmanship as he positions himself for the next U.S. election cycle.

The Bigger Picture

Trump’s second state visit to the U.K. illustrates the complex balance between diplomacy, tradition, and public sentiment. While the royal pomp reinforces the strength of the U.S.–U.K. alliance, the protests highlight the deep polarization surrounding Trump’s legacy.

As history is made at Windsor Castle, Britain finds itself navigating the tension between maintaining strong diplomatic ties and responding to public discontent—a challenge likely to shape the narrative of this unprecedented visit.