Donald Trump enjoys golfing in Scotland despite showery weather. On his second full day visiting, he played another round at Turnberry in South Ayrshire. Family and guests, including his son Eric, joined him.
Meanwhile, Trump’s key business meeting approaches. He will soon meet EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. Reports indicate they will focus solely on major trade discussions.
Specifically, von der Leyen stated their agenda. They plan to discuss vital transatlantic trade relations. Furthermore, their goal is to find ways to keep these relations strong.
Additionally, Trump’s schedule includes UK leaders. On Monday, he will meet UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer. He will also hold talks with Scotland’s First Minister, John Swinney.
Moreover, Trump has a business opening planned. That same Monday, he will open a second 18-hole course. This new course is at his Aberdeenshire estate.
Interestingly, von der Leyen already met Swinney. Their meeting took place on Saturday. She expressed gratitude for Scotland’s hospitality on Instagram.
Specifically, she thanked Swinney warmly. Her social media post highlighted the “warm welcome in Scotland”. This interaction preceded her key talks with President Trump.
Folks near the hotel now see tight security checks. Plus, crews just put up a big fence around the golf course. On Saturday, hundreds of people gathered in Aberdeen and Edinburgh. They stood together protesting Trump’s visit.
Come Monday, Trump meets Labour’s Keir Starmer and Scotland’s leader John Swinney. Right after, he’ll officially open his new golf course at Menie. Right now, the US charges a flat 10% tax on imports. But back in May, Starmer actually worked out a deal with Trump to lower this tax on some British goods.
So naturally, experts think their chat will focus on this trade deal. Could they make it even better? For Swinney, this meeting is a big chance. He says he’ll speak up loudly for Scotland, asking for more U.S. business and trade. He also plans to bring up serious world problems. Specifically, he’ll mention the terrible situation in Gaza.
After all this, Trump heads back to Washington on Tuesday. Don’t worry though, he’s scheduled to return for a UK state visit in September! Meanwhile, locals notice the heavy security presence. It’s a clear sign of the visit’s high profile.
Those protesters voiced strong opinions. Many feel Trump’s policies clash with Scottish values.On the flip side, some Scottish businesses see opportunity. They’re hopeful the golf course brings tourists and that trade talks help exports like whisky.
Trump’s team promises the course created jobs. Still, environmental groups remember their past concerns. Everyone’s watching Monday’s talks. Could they ease trade tensions between the US and UK?
Looking ahead, Scotland prepares to welcome Trump back warmly this autumn. Officials are already planning the September visit details.
