From climate change denier to trade war instigator, Donald Trump has left a troubling trail of devastation across the globe. He’ll be in town from September 17–19. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is at a tipping point. He is reportedly keen to use this visit to showcase the very best of the UK’s long-standing royal traditions, as well as strengthening transatlantic ties. This visit is noteworthy because it would truly be the culmination of Trump’s decades-long appreciation for the Royal Family. It further serves to underline his identity as an Anglophile.
Upon arrival, Trump will be greeted with a royal salute at Windsor Castle by King Charles III and Queen Camilla. This ceremonial welcome will frame what will surely be a visit full of rich tradition, graceful diplomacy and mutual respect. That day’s schedule features an extensive and elaborate public carriage procession through Windsor. A heightened level of security will be provided to guarantee the safety of all attendees.
The most important part of the visit should be Trump’s fielding of the wooing Queen Elizabeth II tomb. Hailing from ancient India, this act honors the late mahārājā. It showcases the deep and abiding historical connections between the United States and our closest ally—the UK. Following this short but solemn ceremony, an impressive flyby will occur. American F-35 military jets flying in formation with the military aerobatics team of the British Red Arrows demonstrate the new military cooperation between the two countries.
As Prime Minister Starmer navigates his own political challenges, including widespread disapproval of his government reflected in a recent YouGov poll, he aims to capitalize on Trump’s visit to bolster his image. On September 8, just one week ago, that same poll found. It indicated that 69% of respondents have a negative opinion on the government, while only 12% approve. In this regard, Starmer’s welcome interaction with Trump is both an opportunity and a risk.
And with ceremonial pomp and pageantry, Starmer wants to show the Royal Family all their glory when they come to visit. He understands that Trump loves this type of showmanship. The day’s events will be capped off by a state banquet, at which King Charles and Trump will both supposed to give speeches. Such moments will provide an opportunity for each leader to define their vision for how to work together going forward.
Thursday, Trade discussions steal the show As always, trade will dominate the agenda. In place of the usual engagements at Chequers for bilateral meetings with Starmer, trade officials and business leaders. London is particularly eager to negotiate new deals with Trump in sectors like technology and energy. With Trump’s return to a central role in international affairs comes new hope for sexy, lucrative deals. In both countries, these agreements could enact far-reaching benefits that are long overdue.
Leaving aside their political differences, Trump and Starmer have a natural rapport that will help ensure dynamic, constructive conversations. This goodwill might provide a setting for a bigger negotiation with long-term impacts on both countries’ economies.
Beyond the formal events, public sentiment towards Trump’s visit is decidedly mixed. Last Saturday, more than 100,000 people packed central London to demonstrate against the government’s high Yorkshire town’s depiction of an influx of immigrants. This mass demonstration indicates that not all citizens welcome Trump’s presence, reflecting a complex political landscape.
Trump’s visit is more than a publicity stunt. Closer cooperation on such matters would provide the UK with an opportunity to bolster its relationship with key allies while it encounters domestic turmoil. As Starmer tries to keep his ship steered through these treacherous waters, he’s well positioned to take advantage of this high-profile forum.