Scottish leader John Swinney believes it serves Scotland's advantage to hold a meeting with Donald Trump.
Scotland's First Minister, John Swinney, is set to discuss energy issues with US President Donald Trump during their upcoming meeting in Scotland. The discussion is expected to centre around the contentious topic of wind farms versus oil production in northeast Scotland.
Trump, who has long expressed his opposition to windmills, particularly in the context of his golf resorts, has advocated for the revival of oil extraction, particularly around Aberdeen. The region, which Trump once referred to as the "oil capital of Europe," is known for its significant oil reserves.
The meeting forms part of Trump's visit to his golf courses in Turnberry and Aberdeenshire from July 25 to 29, 2025. During this time, Trump is also expected to meet with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, with the focus on refining the trade deal between the US and the UK.
Scottish Secretary Ian Murray has defended Swinney's decision to meet Trump, as well as the Prime Minister's decision. However, the Scottish Greens have criticised Swinney for his plans to meet Trump, with outgoing co-leader Patrick Harvie describing the meeting as "tragic" and "out of step with Scotland's values."
Swinney, who supports renewable energy in Scotland, has emphasised the importance of protecting the planet and communities in Scotland. He believes that Scotland's renewable energy is key to the country's future.
It is not clear what other specific topics will be discussed during the meeting between Swinney and Trump. However, it is expected that they may discuss tariffs, Gaza, Ukraine, and the implications of trade and tariffs on Scotch whisky.
The meeting between Swinney and Trump is scheduled to take place later this month, preceding Trump's state visit to the UK in September. Trump is also expected to meet Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer in Aberdeen during his visit to Scotland.
- Trump's meeting with John Swinney in Scotland may extended discussions on the controversy surrounding wind farms versus oil production in northeast Scotland, given Trump's historic opposition to windmills and advocacy for oil extraction.
- Amidst their discussions on trade between the US and UK during his visit, it's possible that politics, such as ongoing international issues like Gaza and Ukraine, could also be a point of debate between Trump and Swinney, considering the potential impacts of trade and tariffs on various sectors like Scotch whisky.
