Donald Trump is making a much-delayed state visit to Britain this week, hosted by royalty and politicians over three days, including commemorations for the 75th anniversary of the D-Day landings. However, behind the pageantry lie policy differences and potential diplomatic slip-ups.
The US president previously turned his back on the Queen and walked in front of her during a guard inspection. This time, protocol challenges include addressing the Queen correctly—the White House recently mistakenly referred to her as 'Her Royal Majesty' instead of 'Her Majesty'—and avoiding speaking during the National Anthem, as President Obama did in 2011. Trump's tea with the Prince of Wales may also highlight their differing views on climate change.
The Duchess of Sussex, who criticised Trump before her marriage, is on maternity leave and will not attend. Trump told The Sun he was surprised she had been so 'nasty' about him. The absence of an American citizen recently married into the royal family, symbolising UK-US ties, has not gone unnoticed.
Politically, Trump visits during a lame-duck period for Prime Minister Theresa May, who is stepping down as Conservative leader. He criticised May's Brexit negotiations, suggesting she let the EU 'have all the cards,' and advocated for Nigel Farage's involvement. Downing Street has rejected an official meeting between Trump and Farage, but a private cup of tea at the US ambassador's residence remains possible, which one minister described as 'disappointing and rude.'
Trump has already endorsed Boris Johnson, the front-runner in the Conservative leadership contest, calling him 'a very good job' and 'an excellent prime minister.' This endorsement may impress some Tory MPs but could alienate others, given Trump's unpopularity among the British electorate. Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn and Liberal Democrat leader Sir Vince Cable have declined invitations to the state banquet.
