Golf, Grit, and Global Deals: Trump Lands in Scotland

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Zuzana Moscakova, Chief Reporter   Vanesa Zackova, Political Editor

As President Trump arrives in Scotland, is this five-day visit a peaceful homecoming or a controversial mix of politics, business and protests? From tee-offs at Turnberry to tariff tensions with the EU, this trip has it all.


Donald Trump landed at Prestwick Airport on July 25, marking the start of a five-day visit focused on his Scottish golf properties and a rare meeting with British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer. While billed as a “working visit,” it mixes leisure, business and political manoeuvring.

Trump’s itinerary includes time at Trump Turnberry in South Ayrshire and Trump International Golf Links in Aberdeenshire, where he is set to inaugurate a new 18-hole course named after his mother, Mary Anne MacLeod, who was born on the Isle of Lewis. He’s also expected to host a dinner with Starmer and engage in talks on refining the UK-US trade deal. A meeting with EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is scheduled for Sunday.

Despite praising Starmer as “a good man” and calling the developing trade deal “great for both sides,” critics argue that the trip primarily serves to promote Trump’s business interests. Many have raised concerns about the use of public resources for what some see as a self-serving visit centred on his private enterprises.

Security across Scotland has been significantly increased. Police Scotland has deployed thousands of officers to manage the trip, stretching local resources during peak holiday leave. The army and special units are also on standby to secure areas around Turnberry, Aberdeenshire, and major cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow.

Protests have erupted in several cities, coordinated by groups such as the Stop Trump Coalition. Protestors have criticised Trump’s stance on Gaza, immigration, and international diplomacy. Some carried “Free Gaza” signs, while others opposed his use of Scotland to further business and political goals.

Local leaders and media outlets have expressed mixed views and divided responses. The National referred to Trump as a “convicted US felon,” while The Daily Record questioned the transparency and public cost of the visit. First Minister John Swinney plans to meet Trump, raising issues such as Gaza, Ukraine and trade tariffs. He urged protesters to remain peaceful but acknowledged the strong public opposition.

The financial toll on UK taxpayers is expected to be significant. Between the cost of security, Air Force One and event logistics, the total could stretch into the millions, similar to previous Trump visits.

This marks Trump’s first UK trip since returning to office. He is expected to return in September for a formal state visit hosted by King Charles III at Windsor Castle, adding more political weight to an already controversial international presence.

Trump’s Scotland trip blends personal business with political diplomacy. From golf courses to government talks, the visit is making headlines for all the reasons Trump usually does: pageantry, protest, and power.

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