Donald Trump will make a rare second state visit to the UK, hosted by King Charles III at Windsor Castle from September 17 to 19.
Trump to Be Hosted by King Charles at Windsor Castle
Former U.S. President Donald Trump will travel to the United Kingdom for a formal state visit hosted by King Charles III at Windsor Castle from September 17 to 19. Buckingham Palace confirmed the visit, which marks Trump’s second official state visit—an exceptional occurrence in royal protocol.
A Departure from Tradition
Trump’s upcoming visit breaks from long-standing diplomatic customs. Typically, U.S. presidents are invited for a state visit only once. While second-term presidents are usually offered a more modest reception—such as tea or lunch with the monarch—Trump’s second invitation underlines the unique nature of this engagement. He was previously hosted by Queen Elizabeth II in 2019 during his first term.
Change in Venue Reflects Renovation Work
Due to ongoing renovations at Buckingham Palace, the visit will be held at Windsor Castle. The stately venue, recently used to host French President Emmanuel Macron, has not seen such a diplomatic event for more than a decade until Macron’s visit. Like Macron, Trump is expected to receive a full ceremonial welcome and attend a state banquet in the historic St George’s Hall.
Royal Participation and Ceremonial Activities
Senior members of the Royal Family, including the Prince and Princess of Wales, are expected to participate in the event. While a full itinerary is still to be released, the visit will mirror traditional ceremonial formats, albeit without large public events due to heightened security considerations.
Security and Political Context
Trump’s visits are known for their complex security arrangements. During his 2019 trip, there was no procession along The Mall, and air transport was favored over road convoys. Similar precautions are anticipated in September. The House of Commons will be in recess during the visit, making it unlikely that Trump will address both Houses of Parliament, although the House of Lords will be in session.
Diplomatic Timing and Strategic Influence
The invitation was officially extended in February by Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer during a meeting with Trump at the White House. Trump welcomed the offer, calling it a “great, great honour.” The timing of the visit coincides with ongoing UK efforts to influence U.S. positions on the Ukraine conflict and trade tariffs. Trump’s admiration for the British monarchy is seen as an avenue for diplomatic leverage.
Canadian Angle and Broader Relations
The visit also comes months after King Charles made a symbolic visit to Canada to open Parliament under new Prime Minister Mark Carney. That gesture was interpreted by many Canadians as a reaffirmation of UK-Canada ties amid growing unease over U.S. policy moves, including Trump’s previous tariff threats.
Looking Ahead
Trump is also scheduled to be in Scotland this month for the opening of a new golf course in Aberdeenshire. While informal talks with the King were initially expected during that trip, scheduling conflicts have deferred any royal meetings to the September state visit.
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