The stage is set for a high-profile royal welcome as Donald Trump makes history with a second state visit to the United Kingdom.
The U.S. President, accompanied by First Lady Melania Trump, boarded Air Force One earlier today, bound for Windsor Castle where the couple will be hosted by King Charles.
For Trump, this isn’t just another overseas trip—it’s a moment he calls a “great honour.”
In fact, he was quick to highlight how unprecedented the occasion is, pointing out that no U.S. president has ever been granted two state visits to Britain.
Praising King Charles
Before leaving Washington, Trump didn’t hold back in his admiration for King Charles.
He described him as “an elegant gentleman” who, in his view, represents the UK with grace and dignity.
Trump emphasized that his friendship with the King goes back long before Charles ascended the throne, saying it feels personal as much as it is political.
“I think he represents the country so well,” Trump told reporters, underscoring that the main purpose of his trip was to meet with the King and Queen.
A Royal Itinerary Packed with Ceremony
The president’s three-day visit will include all the grandeur of British tradition.
A royal flypast is scheduled, along with a carriage ride beside Princess Kate, and of course, a lavish state banquet.
Trump noted with excitement that Windsor Castle—rather than the usual Buckingham Palace—will serve as the setting, calling it “the ultimate” royal venue.
Security Tightens Around Windsor
As Air Force One makes its way across the Atlantic, preparations are already in full swing in Britain.
A strong security presence, often described as a “ring of steel,” has been established around Windsor Castle.
The First Couple will spend the night inside the royal residence, though no public events are expected until tomorrow.
Royal Family’s Role in the Visit
The Prince and Princess of Wales are set to greet Trump and Melania in Windsor on Wednesday morning, joining them for a meeting with King Charles and Queen Camilla.
There has been some uncertainty around Queen Camilla’s schedule, as she had to withdraw from the Duchess of Kent’s funeral earlier in the day due to ill health.
Royal sources, however, suggest she still plans to participate in the events surrounding the state visit.
Political Backdrop in the UK
Trump’s praise didn’t stop with the King.
He also extended warm words for Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, saying he represents the UK “so well.”
This comes at a time of shifting dynamics in the U.S.–UK relationship, particularly after the dismissal of Lord Mandelson as U.S. ambassador.
In Parliament, Foreign Office minister Stephen Doughty reassured MPs that the government remains committed to strengthening the “special relationship” with the United States, calling it vital for security, prosperity, and defence.
Domestic Politics Still in Play
The state visit has unfolded against the backdrop of domestic political tension.
Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch pressed the government to issue a formal apology to victims of Jeffrey Epstein, highlighting ongoing accountability questions.
In response, Doughty reiterated the government’s “horror at the revelations” and confirmed the UK’s clear stance on supporting Epstein’s victims.
What Comes Next
Trump’s arrival marks only the beginning of what promises to be a high-profile and closely watched three-day visit.
With Windsor Castle as the royal stage, a banquet on the horizon, and political conversations running alongside the pomp and pageantry, this trip is set to test not just the strength of Trump’s bond with King Charles but also the future of the U.S.–UK alliance.