Donald Trump’s Historic Second State Visit to the UK at Windsor Castle
On September 16, 2025, President Donald Trump embarked on an unprecedented second state visit to the United Kingdom, marking a rare honor for a U.S. leader in their second term.  Accompanied by First Lady Melania Trump, the president arrived in the UK for a three-day itinerary focused on royal pageantry, diplomatic discussions, and amid heightened security measures.
The visit commenced with the Trumps’ arrival at Windsor Castle, a historic royal residence west of London, where they were greeted by representatives including the U.S. Ambassador Warren Stephens and Viscount Hood, the King’s lord-in-waiting.  Unlike typical second-term visits, which often involve simpler engagements like tea with the monarch, this event features elaborate ceremonies typically reserved for first-time state visits. 
Royal Welcome and Ceremonial Highlights
The main events unfolded on September 17 at Windsor Castle. President Trump and the First Lady were formally welcomed by King Charles III and Queen Camilla, alongside the Prince and Princess of Wales, William and Catherine.  A royal salute was fired from the east lawn of Windsor Castle and the Tower of London, accompanied by a guard of honor formed by the Household Cavalry.  The group then proceeded in a horse-drawn carriage procession through the Windsor estate, escorted by mounted soldiers and lined with members of the armed forces, including bands from the Royal Marines, Army, and RAF. 
Following the procession, the royals hosted a private lunch in the state dining room, followed by a tour of the Royal Collection.  In the afternoon, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and his wife joined for the “Beating the Retreat” military ceremony. Weather permitting, a joint flypast by the Red Arrows and U.S. and British F-35 jets was planned to cap the display.  The day culminated in a grand white-tie state banquet at Windsor Castle, where King Charles and President Trump delivered speeches. 
While Melania Trump remained at Windsor for activities including viewing Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House with Queen Camilla and joining Catherine at Frogmore Gardens for an event with Britain’s Scouts Association, the president continued with diplomatic engagements. 
Diplomatic Agenda and Meetings
On September 18, President Trump bid farewell to the King and Queen before traveling to Chequers, the Prime Minister’s country residence in Buckinghamshire, for talks with Keir Starmer.  Key topics on the agenda include finalizing a U.S.-UK trade deal, aligning on Ukraine support, NATO commitments, energy security, and approaches to global conflicts such as those in Gaza.  The visit underscores Britain’s efforts to strengthen ties with the U.S. amid geopolitical tensions, leveraging Trump’s known admiration for the royal family to foster positive relations. 
Security, Protests, and Controversies
Security for the visit is described as the largest operation in the UK since King Charles’s coronation, involving over 1,300 troops, 120 horses, armed police from across England and Wales, snipers, and extensive searches around Windsor.  Recent events, including the fatal shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, have intensified threat assessments.  U.S. and UK flags adorn the area, but locals have jokingly dubbed Windsor “Trumpton” due to the massive American security presence. 
Protests add to the atmosphere, with the Stop Trump Coalition organizing demonstrations in Windsor and London on September 17, criticizing Trump’s policies on climate change, international conflicts, and alliances with controversial figures.  A notable stunt included a massive 400-square-meter banner of Trump with Jeffrey Epstein displayed near Windsor Castle by activists from “Everyone Hates Elon.”  The Epstein connection has been a persistent controversy, amplified by recent UK scandals involving diplomat Peter Mandelson.  Additionally, Liberal Democrats leader Ed Davey announced a boycott of the state banquet in protest of Trump’s Gaza policies. 
Historical Context and Significance
This visit echoes Trump’s 2019 state visit hosted by the late Queen Elizabeth II at Buckingham Palace but shifts to Windsor due to ongoing refurbishments.  Trump’s personal affinity for British royalty, inherited from his mother, has been evident in his praise for the UK’s “pomp and ceremony.”  For the UK, the event serves as a diplomatic tool to influence U.S. policy on critical issues, despite domestic divisions. 
As the world watches, this blend of tradition, politics, and protest highlights the complex U.S.-UK relationship in 2025.