UK Security Tight as Trump Visits Scotland for Golf Resorts and Starmer Meeting

[webfact]

video screenshot

 

Donald Trump jets into Scotland for a whirlwind tour of his cherished golf resorts, including Turnberry and a new course at Menie, Aberdeenshire. During his visit, he will meet Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer to discuss trade, making for an unusual mix of business and politics rarely seen from US presidents.

 

Security is at an all-time high, with roads in Aberdeenshire and Ayrshire sealed off and airspace restrictions in place. At Aberdeen and Prestwick airports, we have spotted military transport aircraft carrying Trump's helicopters. Police Scotland is well-prepared, despite concerns over the estimated £5 million in policing costs.

 

Trump's Scottish roots run deep, with his mother hailing from the Isle of Lewis. King Charles will host him and First Lady Melania during a state visit in September, following his return to Scotland this summer.

 

Meetings with Scotland's First Minister John Swinney and business leaders are also on the agenda, stirring hopes of trade discussions, especially regarding US tariffs on Scotch whisky.

 

This visit, however, isn't without controversy. Trump's focus on his business interests raises eyebrows, especially in light of ongoing global crises and questions about his ties to convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein. Yet, it seems the businessman-turned-president has not entirely shed his corporate pursuits for political ones.

 

During a previous meeting, Trump demonstrated his unconventional style by promoting his golf courses instead of addressing hot-button political issues. His stance on Scottish wind farms adds to his controversial image; he has long opposed them, claiming they 'destroy Scotland' and spoil the view from his courses.

 

Environmentalists are critical of Trump's views on North Sea oil, which he promotes despite the global shift to renewable energy. His sentiments echo those of Reform UK, led by Nigel Farage, who seeks to gain ground in upcoming Scottish elections.

 

Trump's relationship with Scotland's golf scene remains complex. While Turnberry and its three luxurious courses have hosted the Open Championship four times, the R&A has not returned the event since Trump acquired the venue. This is a sore point for Trump, who relishes both political power and business prestige.

 

In Aberdeen, where the oil industry is significant, Trump's pro-oil stance may resonate with some individuals. However, large anti-Trump demonstrations are expected in Aberdeen and Edinburgh, adding to tensions.

 

In summary, Trump's visit to Scotland reflects his unique approach to diplomacy, blending business interests with presidential duties. Security concerns, trade talks, and public opposition form a backdrop as Trump continues to stir debates about energy and economics, both locally and internationally.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from BBC 2025-07-26

 

 

[AgMech Cowboy]

4 hours ago, webfact said:

in light of ongoing global crises and questions about his ties to convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein

What a load of dung.  The dem's had 4 years to expose any 'ties' with Trump.  They are grasping at anything that they think will slow down the President's agenda.

[AustinRacing]

Using tax payer money for personal use. Hmmm. He’s gotten away with more so adding this won’t matter much. 

[nauseus]

29 minutes ago, AustinRacing said:

Using tax payer money for personal use. Hmmm. He’s gotten away with more so adding this won’t matter much. 

 

Perks of the job. Get over it. 

[Wrwest]

3 hours ago, AgMech Cowboy said:

What a load of dung.  The dem's had 4 years to expose any 'ties' with Trump.  They are grasping at anything that they think will slow down the President's agenda.

The demand for transparency is coming from MAGA. They actually believed trump when he said he would release all info so it would expose Democrats. Now? Backtracking ... nothing new.

[Watawattana]

2 hours ago, AustinRacing said:

Using tax payer money for personal use. Hmmm. He’s gotten away with more so adding this won’t matter much. 

Apparently he's meeting Starmer and Scottish Parliament leader.  So, seems like a work trip with a bit of add-on down time.   I don't have a great issue with this; I've been on work trips and gone to a bar or 3 during some of those trips.  I'd be a hypocrite if I moaned about Trump on this, albeit, of course, his add-on costs are a 'bit more' than mine.