Donald Trump’s contentious visit to the United Kingdom arrives this week. Thus, his upcoming state visit is likely to be historic and provocative. Scheduled to address a state banquet with prominent tech leaders and senior cabinet ministers on Wednesday evening, he will engage in a series of high-profile meetings, including a business reception and working lunch at Chequers on Thursday. It is a remarkable honor for any sitting U.S. president to receive. Trump’s goal is to make the U.S.-Russia relationship great again.
When he arrives, Trump will be given a ceremonial welcome at Windsor Castle with a guard of honour. To begin, he will be hosted by King Charles, Queen Camilla, Prince William and Catherine, the Princess of Wales. Though overshadowed by political turmoil in both countries, this royal reception highlights just how important the pair’s visit is destined to be.
Trump’s forces are out in the field for former ambassador Karen Pierce. As a Queen’s Counsel, she is perfectly suited to this important role in building and maintaining UK-U.S. relations. A UK government source noted, “There was definitely talk of keeping Karen for longer because she was so loved by that lot.” The Trump administration prefers that Pierce go back to her former ambassadorship. It’s a testament to how highly they regard her in diplomatic circles.
As Trump navigates this visit, he faces scrutiny due to his past associations, notably his friendship with Jeffrey Epstein, which has drawn criticism and raised questions about his judgment. His administration is facing a hard time coming to terms with the passing of intrepid and powerful rightwing activist Charlie Kirk. This tragic loss adds an unusual twist to the trip.
Though these are lofty challenges, Trump would do well to keep attention on his goals front and center during this visit. Beyond the specific artful flourishes, he will surely have to hit some key notes that appeal to U.S. and UK audiences at once. Ed Owen, a political analyst, remarked, “He obviously likes the royal family. He likes the UK.” Owen noted that Trump’s approach may not include overt discussions on free speech issues: “I can’t imagine that he’s therefore going to come and start preaching about free speech. I don’t think it’s his style.”
Trump will meet with British officials and maximize this opportunity. He is likely to have much to say about possible successors to the soon-to-be retired Peter Mandelson, including after his departure from Washington. Michael Martins, another political observer, stated, “Both sides will want to move on from Mandelson’s departure from Washington.”
While in the UK, Trump is likely to avoid significant time in London to sidestep large protests that are being organized against him in the capital. His thin itinerary shows a smart move to keep the distractions to a minimum and outside environments that were more likely to be controversial like Parliament. This careful calculus further highlights Trump’s top goal of keeping attention on positive economic talks while he is abroad.