Donald Trump is set to touch down in Scotland as part of a visit centered on his two golf resorts, highlighting his ties to the country where his mother was born. The former president will explore Turnberry in South Ayrshire, which he acquired in 2014, as well as Menie in Aberdeenshire, where he will inaugurate a new 18-hole course. The trip is notable because US presidents usually keep their personal ventures separate from official duties. While there, Trump is also scheduled to meet with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer to discuss trade matters.
This visit has garnered attention because, with widespread crises in Gaza and Ukraine and his controversial ties with convicted individuals like Jeffrey Epstein, many are questioning the timing of his golf-focused agenda. The U.S. has seen Trump blend his political life with his business interests before, most notably during his 2016 campaign.
His Scottish roots stem from his mother, Mary Anne MacLeod, who emigated to the U.S. during the Great Depression after growing up on Scotland's Isle of Lewis. This upcoming trip is a prelude to an official state visit in September, where Trump and First Lady Melania Trump will be received by King Charles III at Windsor Castle. Although Trump won't meet the King during this visit, he will speak with Scotland's First Minister, John Swinney.
Business leaders from industries, including Scotch whisky, are hoping for a discussion about reducing import tariffs during the meetings with Trump. A significant security operation around his visit has raised questions about the costs to Police Scotland, especially in light of expected anti-Trump protests across major cities such as Aberdeen and Edinburgh.
Trump's visit comes at a time of heightened security for the former president, especially after experiencing numerous threats. His time in Scotland will undoubtedly attract attention due to his provocative comments surrounding energy policies, particularly advocating for oil over renewable sources—a stance that resonates with some Scots but draws criticism from others.
Overall, Trump's dual focus on promoting his golf courses while engaging in political conversations makes for a unique and controversial visit, straddling the line between personal and public interests.
