Demonstrations are planned across Scotland this weekend as Donald Trump arrives for a five-day private visit to his luxury golf resorts at Turnberry and Menie. Protest organisers anticipate a wave of resistance from Ayrshire to Aberdeenshire, citing “widespread anger” over the US president’s policies.
The Stop Trump Coalition is organising gatherings in Aberdeen city centre and outside the US consulate in Edinburgh on Saturday at midday. Similar events during Trump’s 2018 visit attracted thousands. Additional protests are expected near Turnberry and Menie, where Trump is to open a new course named after his mother, Mary Anne MacLeod Trump.
While the visit is not official, Prime Minister Keir Starmer will hold talks with Trump in Scotland on Monday. No press conference is planned, but media will attend the start of discussions, which could lead to an impromptu Q&A. Downing Street has provided few details, noting that normal protocols do not apply for a private visit.
Police Scotland’s assistant chief constable Emma Bond said no disorder is expected, but the Scottish Police Federation warned that the operation would stretch resources, potentially doubling response times to other incidents. Ch Supt Rob Hay called it a “significant operation” across many days.
