Protests and golf: A striking contrast in Scotland during Trump's visit.
Scotland, July 29, 2025
Donald Trump is set to visit his golf resorts in Scotland this week, his first since leaving office. His trip will include meetings with British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer to discuss trade relations. However, protests are expected in response to his visit, emphasizing the complex relationship between Trump, his golf ventures, and local sentiment. Heightened security measures will be in place to ensure safety amid anticipated demonstrations while Trump navigates his heritage and business interests during his stay.
Edinburgh, Scotland – Donald Trump is set to visit Scotland this week to inspect two golf resorts he owns amid ongoing protests and critical trade discussions. This visit marks Trump’s first trip to Scotland since his presidency concluded, generating significant attention due to the potential blending of business and politics.
Trump, whose mother, Mary Anne MacLeod, was born in Scotland, will journey to two of his golf resorts: Turnberry in South Ayrshire, purchased in 2014, and Menie in Aberdeenshire, where he plans to launch a new 18-hole golf course. While in Scotland, he is expected to meet with British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer to discuss trade relations, specifically focusing on reducing US tariffs on imports, an issue that has significant implications for local industries, including Scotch whisky producers.
This trip has raised eyebrows among political observers, as it is uncommon for sitting U.S. presidents to publicly endorse personal business interests during their time in office. Trump’s history of merging personal and national interests has led to scrutiny, particularly given the backdrop of crises in Gaza and Ukraine. Critics argue that the emphasis on golf and private enterprises during his visit is inappropriate. The controversy surrounding Trump’s ties to convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein has also fueled opposition to his presence in Scotland.
During his visit, Trump is not scheduled to meet with King Charles but will engage with Scotland’s First Minister, John Swinney. Despite being apprehensive of meeting royalty during this visit, Trump has a planned state visit to the UK in September, hosted by King Charles at Windsor Castle.
A substantial security operation is being implemented for Trump’s visit, including military assets at local airports. Roads and airspace restrictions are in place throughout Aberdeenshire and Ayrshire to ensure safety. Following past protests and security incidents, officials are taking precautions, including the presence of a larger police force anticipating demonstrations by opponents in cities like Aberdeen and Edinburgh.
Trump’s relationship with Scotland is complicated. Some locals express support for his business ventures, while others protest against them, particularly due to his opposition to wind energy and advocacy for the oil industry. His golf course at Turnberry has faced struggles to reach profitability, and his portrayal of golfing victories has led to allegations of cheating during games.
Public demonstrations are expected, with activists gathering in Edinburgh to express discontent towards Trump, carrying signs and voicing their grievances. Concerns have arisen about the use of taxpayer funds associated with Trump’s golf trips, as the U.S. government has documented expenses incurred during these private excursions.
The situation illustrates a rare moment for Scotland, as visits by U.S. presidents are infrequent. Previous leaders, such as Eisenhower, George W. Bush, and Joe Biden, have made similar trips in recent decades. Trump visited Scotland previously in 2018, where he faced protests, setting a precedent for the contentious atmosphere surrounding his golf trips.
In summary, Trump’s visit to Scotland is significant not only for its personal connections to his heritage but also for the political implications as trade discussions loom amid a fraught global climate. His business interests and the ongoing debates over their intertwining with his political activity are likely to dominate conversations as he navigates his time in Scotland.
Donald Trump is visiting two golf resorts in Scotland: Turnberry in South Ayrshire and Menie in Aberdeenshire.
Trump is scheduled to meet with British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer to discuss trade and with Scotland’s First Minister John Swinney.
A large security operation is underway, including military hardware at local airports and road and airspace restrictions throughout Aberdeenshire and Ayrshire.
Yes, public demonstrations against Trump are expected, particularly in cities like Aberdeen and Edinburgh, with a significant police presence to manage the protests.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Resorts Visited | Turnberry & Menie |
| Heritage | Trump’s mother is from Scotland |
| Trade Discussions | Meeting with PM Sir Keir Starmer |
| Security Measures | Military presence, road & airspace restrictions |
| Protests | Demos expected in Aberdeen & Edinburgh |
| Previous Visits | Last visit in 2018 |
Trump Unveils Armored Golf Cart ‘Golf Force One’ in Scotland
Top Caribbean Luxury Resorts for Couples Revealed
Trump Arrives in Scotland Amid Protests and Controversies
Scottish Government Faces Backlash Over Golf Tournament Funding
Trump’s Working Visit to Scotland Amid Controversy
Trump’s Diplomatic Visit to Scotland Amid Protests
Trump’s Diplomatic Visit to Turnberry, Scotland
News Summary This summer, Houston and San Antonio are enhancing their culinary landscape with the…
News Summary The Siding Crew has introduced extensive siding repair services for Houston homeowners, targeting…
News Summary As the special session of the Texas Legislature nears its final 22 days,…
News Summary The Houston community is mourning the loss of Jane Lee Chung, a respected…
News Summary Houston Methodist Hospital has been recognized as the best hospital in Texas for…
News Summary Houston Methodist Hospital has been recognized as the top hospital in Texas for…