Even before Donald Trump touched down in the UK, opposition to his state visit was already making waves.
Demonstrations began to stir across the country, with plans for larger protests unfolding throughout his two-day stay.
Thousands are expected to gather in central London on Wednesday, while other rallies are set up in towns and cities nationwide, all expressing dissent over the US President’s presence.
Heavy Police Presence in London
Authorities are preparing for significant crowds, with around 1,600 police officers stationed in London, particularly around Westminster.
The Stop Trump Coalition is coordinating a march involving roughly 50 groups, signaling a highly visible show of protest.
Officials are working to manage the demonstrations and ensure public safety amid heightened tensions.
Early Signs of Dissent Near Windsor
Even before Trump and his wife Melania arrived, small pockets of protest emerged near Windsor Castle, where the couple is staying.
A handful of demonstrators gathered outside Windsor Parish Church, chanting slogans like “Dump Trump.”
Michelle, 32, a marketing executive, voiced her frustration to AFP: “I am beyond disappointed.
Donald Trump as a person is… fuelling a lot of the far-right protests that we’re already having here.
It’s a humongous problem.” Her comments came shortly after an estimated 150,000 people attended a London rally organised by far-right activist Tommy Robinson.
Planned Marches in London
In London, authorities have implemented road closures to allow protesters to march safely to Parliament Square from around 2pm on Wednesday.
The demonstrations are expected to be large and vocal, reflecting the deep divide of opinion surrounding Trump’s visit and the wider political discourse in the UK.
Arrests and Unauthorized Activity
Security teams have already responded to multiple incidents.
Two 37-year-old men were arrested for flying drones in a temporary exclusion zone near Windsor Castle.
Additionally, four people were taken into custody after projecting images of Jeffrey Epstein, Prince Andrew, and Donald Trump onto the castle walls.
A video displayed several images and clips of Epstein and Trump together over the years, including a note in Trump’s book Trump the Art of the Comeback addressed to Epstein, reading: “To Jeff, you are the greatest.”
Images of Prince Andrew alongside Epstein, who faced multiple sex trafficking charges, were also shown for public view in the Berkshire town.
Police Response
Chief Superintendent Felicity Parker emphasized the seriousness of such incidents: “We take any unauthorised activity around Windsor Castle extremely seriously.
Our officers responded swiftly to stop the projection and four people have been arrested.
We are conducting a thorough investigation with our partners into the circumstances surrounding this incident and will provide further updates when we are in a position to do so.”
Rising Tensions Ahead
As Trump’s visit continues, tensions are expected to rise with further protests and heightened security measures.
From London to Windsor, authorities are balancing ceremonial events with public safety, while citizens make their voices heard in opposition to the US President’s presence in the UK.