Tensions over Donald Trump's state visit as President wants 'full bells and whistles'

Donald Trump’s historic second state visit to Britain is stirring controversy due to the President’s extremely high expectations for a grand occasion. Intense behind-the-scenes negotiations are underway, as Trump has requested a full “bells and whistles” experience. However, several obstacles are complicating the planning. Trump will not be able to visit Buckingham Palace because it is currently under renovation, and a traditional coach parade has been ruled out on security grounds.

Trump is set to arrive in London this September, making him the first U.S. President to be granted two state visits to the UK. However, the planning has not been smooth. According to The Sunday Times, insiders involved in the discussions have revealed that both Downing Street and the Royal Household are struggling to meet the high demands coming from the White House. One source noted, “He can’t go to Buckingham Palace because it’s being renovated… And he can’t have a state coach for security reasons.”

Security concerns are paramount. While President Xi of China was granted a coach parade down the Mall in 2015—despite protests from human rights activists—British officials say Trump presents a much greater security risk. There is currently no coach armored enough to ensure his safety, ruling out the possibility of replicating that type of ceremonial procession.

A senior official close to the discussions added, “There is a challenge in trying to understand what they want and in tempering expectations of what can be delivered.” Nevertheless, political insiders insist that the September visit will be a “full bells and whistles affair” with major ceremonial elements. “The red carpet will be rolled out in a big way,” said one official. “It will be full pomp and ceremony. The U.S. relationship is important.”

Some within Trump’s circle have floated an alternative proposal: hosting the visit at Balmoral Castle in Scotland, the royal family’s remote estate. This location, they argue, would reduce the risk of mass protests and simplify security logistics. “That would do away with the protests and solve the security concerns,” one Trump ally said.

Adding to the tension is a subtle diplomatic undercurrent. Last month, King Charles visited Canada and became the first British monarch in nearly 70 years to preside over the opening of its Parliament. Many observers saw this as a gesture of support following Trump’s controversial suggestion that Canada should become America’s 51st state. During his visit, the King delivered a speech that was widely interpreted as a subtle rebuke to Trump’s expansionist rhetoric.

Meanwhile, it is said to be an open secret within Whitehall and the royal household that King Charles is pleased that French President Emmanuel Macron’s state visit will take place before Trump’s.