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Britain rolled out an elaborate welcome for Donald Trump’s second state visit, featuring a traditional gun salute and mounted horse guards as security remained tight on Wednesday. The event officially kicked off with Trump’s arrival at Windsor Castle via Marine One at around 12:15 pm. Prince William and Catherine warmly greeted Trump and Melania Trump, then accompanied them a short distance to meet King Charles III and Queen Camilla amidst a steel-perimeter away from protesters.
A 41-gun salute was simultaneously fired from six antique WWI cannons on Windsor’s east lawn and at the Tower of London, involving approximately 120 horses and 1,300 military personnel—said to be Britain’s largest military ceremonial welcome for a foreign head of state in recent memory.
Following the formal greeting, the Trumps and the royals participated in a carriage procession across Windsor estate toward the nearly 1,000-year-old castle. Britain’s efforts to impress Trump include a spectacle of pomp and pageantry, aiming to sway his unpredictable stance on global issues, despite him being kept mostly behind closed doors due to his unpopularity among the British public and ongoing protests.
Trump, whose affinity for the royal family and showy displays is well-known, expressed that the visit “warms my heart” upon arriving at the U.S. embassy residence in London Tuesday. He referred to Charles, who is undergoing cancer treatment, as “my friend.” The visit includes a wreath-laying at Queen Elizabeth II’s tomb and a formal white-tie state banquet, where speeches are expected.
The visit is notable as Trump is the first U.S. president to have two separate state visits to the UK. It will also feature an unprecedented joint fly-past by U.S. and UK fighter jets, including F-35s and the Red Arrows display team. The day’s events reflect a strong effort by Britain to appeal to Trump, despite the turmoil surrounding his leadership on issues like tariffs, Ukraine, and Gaza.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer hopes Trump will leave with a positive impression of Britain’s royal influence, though assurances are uncertain. With the backdrop of past controversies, including a recent protest where images of Jeffrey Epstein and Trump were projected onto Windsor Castle, the days ahead could reveal tensions amidst the pomp. On Thursday, Trump will meet with Starmer at Chequers, and discussions may include recent business investments and political issues.
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