Donald Trump has touched down in the UK for a landmark second state visit starting Tuesday, marking a first for a US president. He will stay at Windsor Castle until Thursday before traveling to Chequers to meet Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and his wife, Lady Starmer.
Mass protests are expected to take place in London during Trump’s visit. Although Trump will not visit Parliament, which is currently on break for party conference season, protestors are preparing to make their voices heard. The Stop Trump Coalition plans to rally in Portland Place, central London, on Wednesday, followed by a march to Parliament Square.
The coalition condemns the UK government’s decision to “honour a man violating human rights at home and abroad.” A spokeswoman for the group stated, “After seeing the UK’s largest far-right demo this past weekend, it’s more essential than ever to protest Trump’s visit. Starmer’s response was too little, too late. Now he’s welcoming Trump to discuss nuclear and tech deals benefiting the rich while ignoring everyday people. We reject trading away our democracy and decency.”
Thames Valley Police are prepared for any threats during the visit. Armed officers will patrol the area with Armed Response Vehicles on standby. Sergeant Daniel Hatfield said, “We have planned for everything from low to high-risk incidents. This is a very thorough security operation.” Officers will be equipped with Tasers and firearms to maintain peace.
Originally scheduled to arrive on Wednesday, September 17, as guests of King Charles and Queen Consort Camilla, Trump and Melania will now arrive on Tuesday evening, September 16, at Windsor Castle. They are expected to depart on Thursday after their meetings at Chequers. Buckingham Palace confirmed that the president’s first day will be private, with no public events at Windsor.
Originally published by UKNIP.
