In a noteworthy diplomatic move, Buckingham Palace has announced that former President Donald Trump will embark on a two-day state visit to Britain from September 17 to 19, 2025. This will mark an exceptional second visit for Trump as a head of state, highlighting the unique relationship between the United States and the United Kingdom. The invitation was personally extended by King Charles III, following a formal presentation by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer during a meeting at the Oval Office in February.
In a statement from the palace, it was confirmed that King Charles III and his wife, Queen Camilla, will host Trump and his spouse, Melania, at Windsor Castle. Starmer emphasized the historic significance of this invitation, labeling it as "unprecedented" and underscoring the rare nature of such visits from former presidents.
Reflecting on his previous trip to Britain in 2019, Trump regarded it fondly—he participated in a lavish banquet at Buckingham Palace hosted by Queen Elizabeth II, receiving honors like a royal salute. However, Trump's past interactions with the country have not been devoid of controversy. Leading up to his last visit, he engaged in a public dispute with London's mayor, Sadiq Khan, who had publicly criticized Trump’s political rhetoric, bringing attention to their ongoing discord.
The upcoming visit may not include a traditional address to the Houses of Parliament, as the timing coincides with the season when Parliament is typically not in session due to party conferences. This contrasts with recent visits by leaders like French President Emmanuel Macron, who spoke to Parliament last week. Nonetheless, the meeting between Trump and King Charles III at Windsor Castle will be a focal point of the visit, showcasing the enduring diplomatic ties between the two nations amid a complex political landscape.
In a statement from the palace, it was confirmed that King Charles III and his wife, Queen Camilla, will host Trump and his spouse, Melania, at Windsor Castle. Starmer emphasized the historic significance of this invitation, labeling it as "unprecedented" and underscoring the rare nature of such visits from former presidents.
Reflecting on his previous trip to Britain in 2019, Trump regarded it fondly—he participated in a lavish banquet at Buckingham Palace hosted by Queen Elizabeth II, receiving honors like a royal salute. However, Trump's past interactions with the country have not been devoid of controversy. Leading up to his last visit, he engaged in a public dispute with London's mayor, Sadiq Khan, who had publicly criticized Trump’s political rhetoric, bringing attention to their ongoing discord.
The upcoming visit may not include a traditional address to the Houses of Parliament, as the timing coincides with the season when Parliament is typically not in session due to party conferences. This contrasts with recent visits by leaders like French President Emmanuel Macron, who spoke to Parliament last week. Nonetheless, the meeting between Trump and King Charles III at Windsor Castle will be a focal point of the visit, showcasing the enduring diplomatic ties between the two nations amid a complex political landscape.