Scottish police are preparing for a potential visit by US President Donald Trump later this month, expected to take place at his golf resort in Aberdeenshire, where he’ll open a new course. This visit would mark Trump’s first trip to Scotland since his US election victory.
Why Trump chooses Scotland?
Trump owns two golf courses in Scotland: Trump International Scotland in Aberdeenshire and Trump Turnberry golf resort in Ayrshire. His last presidential visit in 2018 required a major security operation, with thousands protesting in Glasgow, Edinburgh, and Aberdeen. The visit cost over £3 million in policing costs.
Controversy and Criticism
The Scottish Greens have called for an investigation into Trump’s finances in Scotland through an Unexplained Wealth Order (UWO), labeling him a “convicted felon and political extremist”. Co-leader Patrick Harvie stated, “There is no way that Donald Trump should be welcomed to Scotland.”
Liberal Democrat Scottish affairs spokesperson Christine Jardine criticized the expensive policing costs, saying, “They must have been among the most expensive rounds of golf in history.” She urged Trump to alleviate the threat of US trade tariffs on Scottish businesses during his visit.
State Visit Plans
Trump is also set to make a full state visit to the UK later this year, likely in September, as confirmed by Buckingham Palace. The King has invited Trump for a state visit, and Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner expressed pleasure at the prospect of the visit.
Key Concerns
– *Policing Costs*: Previous visits have been costly, with millions spent on security
– *Trade Tariffs*: Scottish businesses are concerned about US trade tariffs
– *Environmental Impact*: Trump’s golf resort has been involved in environmental controversies
– *Protests*: Thousands are expected to protest during the visit
Scottish Government’s Response
First Minister John Swinney expressed concerns about Trump’s recent remarks to Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky, questioning whether a state visit could proceed given the controversy. SNP MPs have also criticized Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer’s relationship with Trump, calling for the state visit invitation to be revoked.
