Trump to make history with second UK official state visit
On Tuesday, former US President Donald Trump is making a return to the United Kingdom for his second state visit. This time, he will be welcomed by Prime Minister Keir Starmer at his country retreat, Chequers.
Despite not being natural allies, Starmer has been trying to win Trump over since his return to the White House. The meeting between the two leaders is aimed at capitalizing on Britain securing a US trade deal and avoiding US tariffs.
In a move to further strengthen the US-UK relationship, Google has announced a £5 billion investment in the UK over the next two years. Financial firms in the United States, including PayPal and Citi Group, have also announced they will spend £1.25 billion in the UK.
Trump's visit comes amid ongoing wars in Ukraine and the Middle East, and economic challenges due to US tariffs. However, the UK government is making efforts to flatter President Trump during his visit.
First Lady Melania Trump will make a rare public appearance on Thursday. Trump, who is of Scottish descent, will become the first US president to get a second state visit, after his previous one in 2019.
Trump's itinerary on Thursday includes an event with Queen Camilla. He is also expected to have a meeting with Prime Minister Starmer, where Ukraine will be a key topic. European leaders are pushing Trump to continue supporting Kyiv.
Controversies over Jeffrey Epstein and free-speech culture wars could lead to awkward moments during Trump's meeting with Starmer. The White House stated that Trump will raise the importance of protecting free speech in the UK during his meeting with Starmer.
Starmer has been facing questions about his judgement for appointing Lord Peter Mandelson as ambassador to Washington despite his known friendship with Epstein. Mandelson, a former EU trade politician, was nominated by Starmer and took office on February 10, 2025. During Trump's second state visit to the UK in 2023, Mandelson was involved diplomatically with Trump, with media discussions including controversial topics related to Epstein.
Trump has shown interest in the British royal family and will be treated to a carriage procession with King Charles III and a grand state banquet at Windsor Castle. However, Epstein's friendship with Charles's younger brother Andrew also embarrassed the royal family.
Elon Musk's language was deemed "dangerous and inflammatory" by Starmer's spokesman. The visit will keep Trump away from crowds and protesters, as he will be outside London where a large demonstration has been called against him.
The two leaders are expected to sign agreements worth £10 billion ($13.6 billion), including one to speed up new nuclear projects and a "world-leading tech partnership". The visit is set to be an important step in strengthening the relationship between the US and the UK.
