A picturesque view of Turnberry golf course during a high-profile visit.
Former President Donald Trump’s private visit to Scotland involves significant security measures as he plays golf at Trump Turnberry and meets political leaders. Demonstrations against his policies erupt in major cities. The visit seeks to discuss trade relations and announce public funding for a golf tournament, highlighting the polarized opinions around Trump’s presence.
Prestwick, Scotland – Former President Donald Trump has begun a private visit to Scotland, marked by a significant security operation as he engages in a game of golf at Trump Turnberry and holds meetings with political leaders. Trump arrived at Prestwick Airport on Friday evening and commenced his golf outing around 10:00 am on Saturday. His schedule includes discussions with UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Scotland’s First Minister John Swinney, as well as the opening of a new 18-hole golf course at his estate in Aberdeenshire.
In response to Trump’s visit, hundreds of demonstrators have gathered in major cities like Aberdeen and Edinburgh, voicing their concerns over his politics and environmental policies. Protesters have referred to a well-known slogan from comedian Janey Godley during their demonstrations, which they described as a “carnival of resistance.” This rising tension underscores the divisiveness surrounding Trump, whose administration has faced significant scrutiny over various issues.
To mitigate any potential unrest, a stringent security operation has been implemented, the largest since the death of Queen Elizabeth II in 2022. The effort includes both local police forces and national security personnel, with roads leading to the Turnberry area closed off. Security sweeps were conducted by police and military units, and checkpoints have been established outside hotels where Trump is staying. Moreover, security fencing has been erected around the golf course, with monitoring in place to ensure the safety of visitors and participants.
Despite the extensive security measures, some golfers were allowed access to the Ailsa course starting at 07:30 am on Saturday. Trump participated in the game alongside his son Eric, US Ambassador Warren Stephens, and several other associates, who traveled in an entourage of 15 golf buggies. The cost for a premium round of golf at Turnberry during the summer season is £1,000.
As the visit progresses, Trump is anticipated to discuss transatlantic trade relations with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Sunday. He is also expected to address issues such as migration policies in European countries and oppose wind farm developments, a continuation of his previous stance that had him embroiled in legal conflicts over proposed wind energy projects in Aberdeen.
Separately, Trump’s engagement with the Scottish government includes the announcement of £180,000 in public funding allocated for a golf tournament at his Aberdeenshire course in August 2025. While First Minister John Swinney has defended the funding by citing the economic benefits of golf tourism in Scotland, Scottish Greens co-leader Patrick Harvie criticized it, likening it to supplying “pocket money to a bully.”
Concern over the financial implications of Trump’s visit has been raised by some members of the public, who are frustrated with the taxpayer burden associated with the extensive security arrangements. However, a contrasting sentiment was observed when some local members of the Maidens Bowling Club expressed an interest in inviting Trump for a game of boules, reflecting a mixture of local sentiments surrounding the visit.
Trump’s visit to Scotland is not new; he previously visited in 2018 amid protests, one of which involved a paraglider breaching security measures. This current trip aims to commemorate the dedication of a new golf course named after his mother, Mary Anne MacLeod. Trump is set to return to Washington on Tuesday, with an official state visit to the UK planned for September.
As Trump navigates his week in Scotland, the intertwining themes of golf, politics, and public opinion continue to shape the narrative of his visit, with ongoing protests highlighting the polarized views toward his presidency and policies.
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