Trump Lands in Scotland for Golf, Trade Talks, and Encounters Protests
Former U.S. President Donald Trump arrived in Scotland on Friday, July 25, 2025, kicking off a five-day visit marked by golf, trade negotiations, and a wave of controversy. Landing at Prestwick Airport in Ayrshire, Trump immediately traveled to his Trump Turnberry golf resort, setting the stage for a trip interwoven with personal business interests and diplomatic engagements.
Golf and Business Interests Take Center Stage
A significant portion of Trump's visit revolves around his Scottish golf courses. He intends to visit both Trump Turnberry and Trump International Golf Links near Aberdeen. The visit also includes the grand opening of a new 18-hole course named after his mother, Mary Anne MacLeod Trump, located near Aberdeen. The official opening of this new Aberdeenshire course is scheduled for August 13.
Immigration Remarks Spark Controversy
Upon arrival, Trump immediately stirred controversy with strong remarks on immigration. He described the situation as an "invasion" that is "killing Europe," urging European leaders to "get your act together." Trump also voiced his disapproval of wind turbines, claiming they are "ruining your countries," reigniting past controversies surrounding his opposition to wind farms near his golf courses.
Bilateral Talks with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer
A key aspect of Trump's visit is a scheduled meeting with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer to discuss the UK-US trade deal. Trump expressed a positive outlook on the existing agreement, describing Starmer as a "good man" and praising him for finalizing "a good deal for the UK." He suggested the meeting would be "more of a celebration than a workout" but also hinted at potential adjustments to the deal, particularly concerning steel and aluminum tariffs.
EU Trade Deal Negotiations Loom
Trump is also set to meet with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Sunday in Scotland to discuss transatlantic trade relations. Von der Leyen announced the meeting via X. Trump assessed the chances of reaching an agreement with the EU as "a good 50-50 chance" while acknowledging "maybe 20 different" sticking points. He has threatened to impose a 30% tariff on imports from EU member countries if a deal is not reached. Reports have suggested the tariff may be around 15% instead.
Meeting with Scotland's First Minister John Swinney
Adding to the diplomatic agenda, Trump is scheduled to meet with Scotland's First Minister, John Swinney. Swinney plans to address several critical issues, including tariffs, the situations in Gaza and Ukraine, and to highlight Scotland's tourism and economic opportunities.
Epstein Controversy Persists
The shadow of the Jeffrey Epstein controversy continues to follow Trump. Questions regarding his connection to the convicted sex offender and the release of the Epstein files surfaced during his arrival in Scotland. Reporters questioned him about Ghislaine Maxwell, and protestors displayed signs referencing the controversy. Trump dismissed these questions as "conspiracy theories."
Key Dates and Events
The timeline of Trump's visit includes several key events:
- Friday, July 25, 2025: Arrival in Scotland, travel to Trump Turnberry, public statements on immigration and windmills.
- Saturday, July 26, 2025: Expected golf at Turnberry; protests planned in Aberdeen and Edinburgh.
- Sunday, July 27, 2025: Meeting with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.
- Monday, July 28, 2025: Potential visit to Trump International Links Aberdeen with PM Starmer, meeting with Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
- Tuesday, July 29, 2025: Expected departure from Scotland.
- August 1, 2025: Deadline for trade deals with the US to avoid potential tariffs.
- August 13, 2025: Official opening of Trump's new golf course in Aberdeenshire.
- September 17-19, 2025: Scheduled official state visit to the UK, hosted by King Charles at Windsor Castle.
Stakeholders and Their Interests
Several stakeholders are invested in the outcomes of Trump's visit:
- Donald Trump: Aims to finalize trade deals and address immigration and energy policy while promoting his business interests.
- Keir Starmer: Seeks to maintain and potentially improve the UK-US trade deal.
- Ursula von der Leyen: Hopes to secure a trade agreement between the US and the EU.
- John Swinney: Intends to raise issues of concern to Scotland and promote the nation's interests.
- Police Scotland: Manages security amidst the visit and anticipated protests.
- Protest Groups: Organize demonstrations against Trump's policies and presence.
- Trump Organization: Benefits from the promotion of Trump's golf properties.
- EU and UK Businesses: Await the results of trade negotiations that will impact tariffs and trade regulations.
Controversies and Reactions
Trump's visit has already sparked several controversies:
- Mingling of Politics and Business: Concerns regarding ethics and the blurring of lines between official duties and personal business due to the promotion of his golf resorts.
- Immigration Stance: Strong rhetoric on immigration is expected to provoke strong reactions.
- Jeffrey Epstein Controversy: Ongoing questions and scrutiny surrounding Trump's connection to Jeffrey Epstein.
- Trade Deal Uncertainties: Comments about "fine-tuning" and potential tariffs create uncertainty for businesses and international trade.
- Environmental Concerns: Criticism of wind farms aligns with past controversies surrounding his Scottish golf courses.
- Protests: Anticipated demonstrations reflect public opposition to Trump's policies and presence.
As Trump's visit continues, the intertwining of trade negotiations, business interests, and public controversies promises to keep Scotland in the international spotlight. The scheduled opening of the new Aberdeenshire course is set to officially open on August 13.
