U.S. President Donald Trump arrived in Scotland on Friday evening for a four-day private visit that merges personal leisure with high-level political engagement and renewed criticism of European immigration and environmental policies.
Arrival at Prestwick and Stay at Turnberry
Air Force One landed at Prestwick Airport around 8:30 p.m. local time, where Trump was greeted by Scottish Secretary Ian Murray and U.S. Ambassador to the UK Warren Stephens. Shortly after, the president gave a brief remark to waiting media:
“It’s great to be in Scotland.”
From the airport, Trump departed in his heavily escorted motorcade, which included over two dozen vehicles, Scotland Yard security, and medical support. The convoy—featuring his signature presidential vehicle, known as “The Beast”—made its way to the Turnberry golf resort in South Ayrshire, where he is expected to spend the weekend.
Praise for Starmer and Swinney
Before leaving Washington, Trump spoke to reporters, offering unexpectedly warm praise for both UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Scotland’s First Minister John Swinney.
“He’s slightly more liberal than I am… but he’s a good man. He got a trade deal done,” Trump said of Starmer, referring to a recent agreement finalized after more than a decade of negotiations.
Trump also described Swinney as “a good man” and confirmed his intent to meet with him during the visit.
Protests and Heightened Security
Trump’s arrival was not without tension. A small protest group assembled along the route to Turnberry, with larger demonstrations expected in Edinburgh and Aberdeen over the weekend.
In preparation for the visit, local authorities have implemented tight security measures across Ayrshire and Aberdeenshire, including road closures, reinforced barriers, and support from multiple UK police forces.
A Golf Agenda with Diplomatic Undertones
Despite being officially described as a “working trip” by White House Press Secretary Taylor Rogers, Trump’s itinerary is heavy with personal activities. He is expected to play golf over the weekend and will also preside over the official opening of a new 18-hole course at Menie in Aberdeenshire.
Trump credited the late actor Sean Connery with helping to secure planning permission for the Menie course. Notably, Trump International previously opposed a North Sea wind farm near the property, arguing it would spoil the resort’s scenic views—a challenge that was ultimately unsuccessful.
Meetings with European Leaders Ahead
In addition to the golf-focused weekend, Trump’s schedule includes:
- A meeting with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Sunday to discuss transatlantic trade
- A bilateral meeting with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer in London on Monday
- A departure from Scotland on Tuesday
- A formal state visit to the UK planned for September
Sharp Criticism of European Policies
True to form, Trump used his arrival to deliver pointed remarks on key European policy issues.
Speaking to reporters, the president sharply criticized wind energy, stating:
“Windmills ruin fields and oceans and kill birds. Nations should stop the windmills.”
He also doubled down on his stance against illegal immigration, calling it:
“An invasion killing Europe.”
These comments reflect long-held Trump positions and are likely to draw criticism from both environmental groups and pro-immigration advocates across Europe.
Conclusion
President Trump’s visit to Scotland blends personal comfort with political theater, combining golf, diplomacy, and provocative rhetoric. As protests unfold and meetings with European leaders approach, the trip underscores the continued polarisation surrounding Trump’s leadership style and international presence.
While the president may be swinging clubs at Turnberry, the implications of his words—and meetings—will reverberate far beyond the Scottish coastline.
