Will Trump Pay His Respects at the Queen's Tomb During His UK Visit?

This article outlines the upcoming state visit of US President Donald Trump to the UK, scheduled from 17 to 19 September 2023. During this visit, he will pay respects at the tomb of the late Queen Elizabeth II, meet King Charles III, and engage in discussions regarding a UK-US trade deal. The visit is significant as it deviates from the traditional practice of second-term presidents receiving informal invitations instead of formal state visits.

Last updated: 17 September 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Trump's state visit is scheduled from 17 to 19 September 2023.
• He will meet King Charles III and the Prince and Princess of Wales.
• A traditional banquet will be held at Windsor Castle.
• Trump will conduct discussions with UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer.
• Protests against Trump’s visit are being organised by the Stop Trump coalition.

Overview of the Visit

President Trump’s visit to the UK marks his return as a prominent figure in international politics. Scheduled over three days, this visit is unique as it includes a state banquet and formal meetings with key UK leaders, which is not customary for second-term presidents. The itinerary is packed with ceremonial events and discussions that highlight the ongoing relationship between the UK and the US.

Itinerary Highlights

The visit will commence on 17 September, with Trump being greeted by the Prince and Princess of Wales. Following this, he will receive a royal salute at Windsor and the Tower of London, marking the start of formal proceedings. A flypast featuring UK and US F-35 military jets, along with the Red Arrows, will further add to the grandeur of the occasion.

Meeting with the Royal Family

During this visit, Trump will meet not only King Charles III and Queen Camilla but also engage with the Prince and Princess of Wales. The royal family’s involvement signifies the importance placed on the US-UK relationship, especially in the context of trade discussions that are anticipated to take centre stage during Trump’s meetings with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer.

Discussions with UK Leaders

As part of his visit, Trump is expected to hold talks with Sir Keir Starmer at Chequers, the Prime Minister’s country residence. Their discussions are likely to focus on the UK-US trade deal, which has been a topic of significant interest following their meeting earlier in the year at the White House. This trade deal is seen as vital for the UK’s economy post-Brexit.

Historical Context of State Visits

Traditionally, second-term presidents have not received state visits, which adds a layer of intrigue to Trump’s invitation. The visit is not only a diplomatic engagement but also a nod to the evolving nature of UK-US relations under the current political climate. Since King Charles ascended the throne, he has welcomed various world leaders, indicating a proactive approach to international diplomacy.

State Banquet and Ceremonial Events

A highlight of the visit will be the state banquet at Windsor Castle, where both Trump and King Charles are scheduled to deliver speeches. This banquet serves not only as a ceremonial occasion but also as a platform for discussing shared values and future collaborations between the two nations.

Melania Trump’s Activities

First Lady Melania Trump will have her own engagements during the visit. She is set to tour the Queen Mary's Dolls' House and the Royal Library at Windsor Castle, accompanied by Queen Camilla. Additionally, Melania will join the Princess of Wales at Frogmore Gardens to meet members of the Scouts movement, showcasing the cultural ties and community engagement initiatives between the two countries.

Protests and Controversies Surrounding the Visit

In contrast to the formalities, the visit has sparked controversy. The Stop Trump coalition has announced plans for a "Trump Not Welcome" demonstration in London on 17 September, voicing their opposition to Trump’s policies on climate change and international conflicts. This demonstration reflects the division of public opinion regarding Trump’s leadership and its implications for global issues.

Public Sentiment and Political Reactions

The planned protests signify a broader discontent with Trump's stance on various humanitarian issues. Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey has stated his intention to boycott the banquet, aiming to highlight the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. This opposition underlines the complexities of political relationships and public sentiment in the UK regarding US foreign policy.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next?

As Trump’s state visit approaches, the focus will be on how the meetings unfold and the outcomes of discussions related to the trade deal. The implications of this visit could have lasting effects on the UK’s economic landscape and diplomatic relations with the US. The success of the visit will likely depend on the ability of both leaders to navigate the sensitive topics at hand while fostering collaboration.

FAQs

What is the purpose of Trump’s state visit to the UK?

The purpose of Trump’s state visit is to strengthen UK-US relations, particularly discussing a trade deal and engaging in ceremonial activities with the royal family.

When will Trump’s visit take place?

Trump’s visit to the UK is scheduled from 17 to 19 September 2023.

What events are planned during the visit?

Key events include meetings with King Charles III, a state banquet, a private visit to the late Queen’s tomb, and discussions on trade with UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer.

Are there any protests planned during the visit?

Yes, the Stop Trump coalition is organising a demonstration called "Trump Not Welcome" in London on 17 September to express opposition to Trump’s policies.

How is the UK government responding to the visit?

The UK government has extended a formal invitation for the state visit, indicating a desire to maintain strong diplomatic ties with the US despite public opposition.

As the state visit approaches, it raises questions about the future of international relations and how two nations navigate complex issues together. Will this visit pave the way for fruitful agreements or underscore existing divides? #TrumpVisit #UKUSRelations #StateBanquet