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Protesters with signs and chants gathered in central London on Wednesday to oppose US President Donald Trump’s second official visit to the UK, a visit marked by a stark contrast in receptions. The Metropolitan Police estimated around 5,000 demonstrators participated in a rally outside Parliament, as Trump was received with a red carpet at Windsor Castle, located about 22 miles west of London.
Participants expressed their disapproval through banners and slogans. Former teacher Dave Lockett, 67, remarked, “We’re protesting generally against everything about Donald Trump. There are so many reasons to dislike him, it’s hard to choose just one.” He added, “He’s spreading chaos and destruction worldwide. If his ideas start influencing Britain, it could lead to fascism here.”
Left-wing politicians, including Zack Polanski, leader of the Green Party, addressed the crowd during the rally organized by comedian Nish Kumar. Polanski stated, “We’re gathered here united to say this isn’t in our name. It’s time to challenge everything Trump represents and reject the politics of division and hate.”
Ahead of the main demonstration, crowds assembled near the BBC headquarters, holding a variety of signs from supporting Palestine to condemning fascism. Participants recreated the inflatable Trump wearing a diaper balloon from his 2019 visit, with some holding signs like “End the genocide. Stop Trump.” The protest was organized by the Stop Trump Coalition, supported by groups such as Amnesty International UK, Black Lives Matter UK, Palestine Solidarity Campaign, and Greenpeace.
The coalition questioned Trump’s brief visit to London, suggesting it was because he’s avoiding protests. “He’s opting to hide and ride in a parade at Windsor, far from public view. Our protest is making him cautious,” a statement read.
Throughout the evening, demonstrators chanted “Say it loud, say it clear: Donald Trump is not welcome here,” as speakers criticized him. Police deployed over 1,600 officers, including 500 from other jurisdictions, to maintain order. No significant disturbances or arrests were reported, though a single supporter held a “We Love Trump” sign amid booing crowds.
Polls show Trump remains unpopular among the British public, with nearly half of respondents believing his second visit shouldn’t have been extended. Only a quarter think it will improve UK-US relations. London’s mayor, Sadiq Khan, a staunch critic, highlighted Trump’s divisive policies and rhetoric, citing his actions like scapegoating minorities, deporting citizens the wrong way, and deploying military force in diverse cities. Khan has long been outspoken against Trump, even permitting the famous “Trump baby” blimp to fly during his visits.
Last weekend, a rally attended by approximately 150,000 people, organized by far-right activist Tommy Robinson, resulted in clashes and injured police officers. Khan characterized Trump’s tactics as reminiscent of autocratic regimes, emphasizing that such conduct is incompatible with Western values.
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