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The US president arrived in the UK ahead of what marks his repeat state visit, an event described as unprecedented in modern political relations.

Trump and his wife Melania landed Tuesday night at Stansted Airport aboard Air Force One. The schedule features events over the next two days, including meetings with King Charles, armed forces displays, and a possible flypast by the Red Arrows together with British and American F-35 fighter aircraft.

Protests Erupt Against Trump’s Policies and Rhetoric

The visit has sparked backlash from various quarters in the UK, with the anti-Trump alliance organizing a demonstration in Windsor on Tuesday and scheduling a further public gathering in central London on Wednesday.

A leading official claimed the US president of fanning the flames of polarizing, far-right politics across the globe in recent years.

The same individual stated that Trump’s deployment of the military in US cities and targeting of marginalized groups echoed tactics straight out of the autocrat’s playbook.

He emphasized that while maintaining strong ties with the US is practical, the UK must be willing to criticize a leader who advances divisive policies.

Official Greeting and Protest Scenes

After landing, Donald and Melania Trump were welcomed by American diplomatic representatives and a British lord-in-waiting representing the monarch. The foreign secretary was among those present to greet the president.

The Trumps then entered Marine One, the presidential helicopter, which departed shortly after their arrival. They were scheduled to travel to Winfield House in a central London location.

At the same time, approximately 70 demonstrators gathered outside Windsor Castle, carrying signs and chanting phrases such as “No to Trump” and “Donald Trump not welcome here”.

A protester commented, “We need to show that we do not support what is happening in the world right now.”

Another individual voiced dismay at the UK leadership’s decision to extend such a warm welcome, calling it “repulsive” and asking whether Trump deserved such exceptional treatment.

Royal Events and Military Displays

The royal couple are scheduled to greet the presidential pair with a formal reception at Windsor Castle, including gun salutes fired at the same time in Windsor and at the Tower of London.

UK defense authorities confirmed that this would be the largest guard of honour provided during a state visit, with approximately 1,300 military personnel and 120 horses taking part.

The event will also include a carriage procession toward the castle, accompanied by the royal mounted regiment, and a Beating Retreat ceremony—the first time such an act has been staged for a state visit.

A lavish state banquet includes performances by several ensembles, including the a royal musical unit and pipers from the a historic regiment.

Divided Opinions and Future Engagements

While a significant number protested, a few showed support for the US president’s visit. One supporter stated that his presence could assist in brokering world peace and reinforcing international alliances.

Another local admitted that while not protesting, they felt the public dissent represented the opinions of the most in the UK, adding that the state visit seemed intended to appease Trump rather than reflect public sentiment.

The president is set to visit the country residence of Keir Starmer on Thursday, with RAF personnel lining the route upon his arrival.