King Charles has invited US President Donald Trump for an unprecedented second state visit, scheduled from 17 to 19 September, a period when Parliament is not sitting. The timing avoids the possibility of Trump addressing both Houses of Parliament, a tradition accorded to some previous US leaders.
Buckingham Palace confirmed the visit on Monday, noting that the King and Queen Camilla will host Trump and his wife, Melania, at Windsor Castle. Further details of the trip have yet to be announced, though the visit is considered a diplomatic coup for the White House, making Trump the first elected politician in modern history to receive two state visits to the UK.
The decision to schedule the visit during the parliamentary recess comes amid controversy over Trump's potential address to Parliament. Last week, 15 Labour MPs and five others signed a motion urging Commons Speaker Lindsay Hoyle to deny Trump the honour, citing the president's history of “misogyny, racism and xenophobia.” The MPs criticised Trump’s past comments on women, refugees, and his stance on Ukraine.
Peter Mandelson, the British ambassador to the US, has called for a warm reception, stating Trump “really does love Britain” and trusts Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Starmer has cultivated a productive relationship with Trump, securing lower tariffs on British cars and aerospace equipment. However, the prime minister continues to seek further concessions, particularly on steel exports, which remain subject to tariffs pending US inquiries into UK supply chains.
Trump’s previous UK visit in 2019 drew tens of thousands of protesters in London, leading to a social media attack on Mayor Sadiq Khan. Trump also faced criticism for appearing to walk ahead of the late Queen Elizabeth II, a perceived breach of protocol. Despite royal approval, the upcoming visit is expected to generate significant public debate and potential protest.
