Trump state visit RECAP: US President makes Princess Kate comment in banquet speech

Thank you for following our live coverage of Donald Trump's first day in the UK, of what is his second state visit to the country. This live blog is now closed.

Prince William and Princess Kate have sparked a right royal frenzy tonight after they shared a new portrait of themselves ahead of the glittering state banquet at Windsor Castle in honour of US President Donald Trump.

Kensington Palace took to its social media today to post a stunning new portrait of the royal couple as they prepared to attend a state banquet in honour of President Trump, as well as a behind-the-scenes snap of their departure.

Royal fans could not contain their excitement over the new pictures and took to social media to express their jubilation.

The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh are noticeably absent from Donald Trump's state visit as they have both travelled abroad to undertake a series of important engagements.

Prince Edward arrived in Papua New Guinea on September 14 and will be reunited with the Duchess tomorrow in Japan.

They will arrive in the country on Thursday, September 18 and remain there until Monday, September 22, to celebrate the good relationship between the UK and Japan.

The Prince and Princess of Wales have released a new video of Day One of Donald Trump's second state visit to the UK.

Prince William and Princess Kate greeted Mr Trump and the First Lady, Melania, at Victoria House before they headed to Windsor Castle for the ceremonial welcome.

The Waleses also attended tonight's state banquet at the castle, held in honour of their American guests.

As the banquet concluded, Kensington Palace took to its social media accounts and posted a new video showing footage of the royal couple from today's engagements.

It was captioned: "A day to remember in Windsor for the State Visit of @potus."

Donald Trump took a thinly veiled swipe at Prince Harry in his state banquet speech - with a pointed reference to his brother.

When praising Prince William, Trump said that the King had raised a "remarkable son" - but seemed to leave out his other son Prince Harry.

Standing before King Charles III, Queen Camilla, the Princess of Wales, and an audience of dignitaries, the US President showered the Royal Family with praise.

King Charles and Queen Camilla hosted a lavish state banquet at Windsor Castle tonight in honour of US President Donald Trump and his wife, First Lady Melania Trump and the guest list was nothing short of spectacular.

Various figures from showbiz, politics, trade and business were included in the guest list, consisting of 160 people and dinedinside the lavish St George's Hall.

Contrary to previous state visits by US presidents, this one appeared to feature more businesspeople than celebrities.

And the Princess of Wales was seated next to a controversial guest.

King Charles gave Donald Trump a present which carried quite a significance today, as the US president was welcomed to Windsor on his second state visit to the UK.

According to Buckingham Palace, the King and Queen gifted their American guest the Union Flag that was hoisted above the royal residence on the day of the president's inauguration earlier this year, signifying their close bond.

They also gave him a bespoke, hand-bound leather book specially crafted by the Royal Bindery in Windsor Castle to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, which was adopted in Philadelphia on July 4, 1776.

King Charles hailed his American guests tonight during a short speech at the glittering state banquet in Windsor Castle, held in honour of Donald and Melania Trump.

The King hailed the "enduring bond", "deep friendship" and "unparalleled partnership" between the UK and USA and spoke of a "new era" of the infamous special relationship between the two nations.

His short speech, heard by the 160 guests, was peppered with jokes, cultural references and personal flourishes.

Check out the King's full speech here.

Kensington Palace has shared a stunning new picture of the Prince and Princess of Wales following the glittering state banquet at Windsor Castle this evening.

Captioning the photo "Behind the scenes", the Palace uploaded the sweet snap of Princess Kate holding hands with Prince William as they seemingly make their way out of Windsor Castle.

The princess's dress can be seen in all its glory from behind.

US President Donald Trump said the Princess of Wales was "so radiant and so healthy" during his speech tonight at Windsor Castle.

Mr Trump said: "His Majesty has also raised a remarkable son in His Royal Highness, the Prince of Wales. Really amazing.

"We've gotten to know you and I think you're going to have an unbelievable success in future.

"Melania and I are delighted to visit again with Prince William and to see Her Royal Highness, Princess Catherine, so radiant and so healthy, it's so beautiful. It's really a great honour, thank you."

He spoke of the “lionhearted kingdom” and the “very special” Royal Family in a respectful speech.

Addressing the King, he said "I have such respect for you and such respect for this country".

He added that the two nations are "each beautiful on its own but really meant to be together".

"The bond is priceless, eternal, irreplaceable and unbreakable," he said.

Wrapping up his speech, Trump heaped praise on the King and Queen, saying: "A very, very special man, and also a very, very special queen. It’s a great honour to be with you."

The King hailed the “enduring bond”, “deep friendship” and “unparalleled partnership” between the UK and USA at tonight's white-tie state banquet held in Trump’s honour.

Charles spoke of a “new era” of the infamous special relationship between the two nations in a short speech peppered with jokes, cultural references and personal flourishes.

He said, “This unique and important occasion reflects the enduring bond between our two nations. Anchored by the deep friendship between our people, this relationship, which, with good reason, we and our predecessors have long called ‘special’, has made us safer and stronger through the generations.”

When referencing the upcoming 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, the King said: “It is remarkable how far we have come… The ocean may still divide us, but in so many other ways we are now the closest of kin.”

There were jokes about Britain’s “splendid golf courses” and the US media’s attempt to marry him off to President Nixon’s daughter, Tricia, in the 1970s, as well as more serious references to conflicts and striving towards a better world

The 76-year-old monarch praised Trump’s “personal commitment to finding solutions to some of the world’s most intractable conflicts, in order to secure peace before speaking about the importance of safeguarding the planet.

“Our legacy for the next 250 years and beyond is to ensure that our children, grandchildren, and those who come after them, can experience the awe and magnificence of the natural treasures found in the countryside, on the coasts, in the seas and in the National Parks established by your predecessors and mine,” he said, while addressing the climate sceptic President.

Concluding his speech, the King proposed a toast and said: “In renewing our bond tonight, we do so with unshakeable trust in our friendship and in our shared commitment to independence and liberty.”

By Emily Ferguson - Royal Editor at Windsor Castle

King Charles added a touching detail to the glittering state banquet he hosted tonight for US President Donald Trump.

The white-tie event is taking place on Wednesday evening, shortly after the pomp and pageantry of earlier today, when the American president and his wife, Melania, were welcomed to Windsor.

Palace staff had been preparing for six months so that the three-course dinner would be immaculate, with every detail having been approved by the King.

One of the details was a touching nod to Mr Trump's second presidency.

Melania Trump lit up Windsor Castle in a statement gown that commanded attention from the moment she arrived.

Choosing a striking canary yellow, she stepped away from the muted palettes and classic jewel tones so often favoured for state banquets.

The off-the-shoulder silhouette, with its clean neckline and fitted bodice, was both modern and unapologetically glamorous, balanced by a wide lilac belt that added a bold contrast.

The Princess Royal looked stunning as she arrived at Windsor Castle for tonight's state banquet in honour of US President Donald Trump.

Anne wore a light yellow gown and styled her hair in her signature bouffant.

She was accompanied by her husband, Sir Tim Laurence.

The King and Queen have now arrived at Windsor Castle to host the state banquet for the US President.

The Queen is wearing a royal blue silk marocain embroidered dress by Fiona Clare.

She is also sporting a sapphire and diamond tiara, and the King’s Family Order.

The Prince and Princess of Wales have released a new portait ahead of the glittering state banquet at Windsor Castle tonight.

Kensington Palace took to its social media to post the sunning new portrait as they prepare to attend the American State banquet.

Princess Kate looks dazzling couture gown by British designer Phillipa Lepley with a full-length, hand-embroidered gold Chantilly lace evening coat over a silk crepe gown, in line with her commitment to supporting British designers.

The coat features hand-embroidered roses with couched gold cording, accented with French knots and satin-stitched blooms.

She is also sporting her beloved Lover's Knot tiara and earrings by the late Queen.

She's also wearing her Royal Family Orders of King Charles and Queen Elizabeth, the Grand Cross of the Royal Victorian Order and the GCVO Star and Sash.

The photograph was taken by Matt Porteous.

State visits are always characterised by a glittering state banquet, and Donald Trump's official welcome is no different.

After today's ceremonial welcome filled with pomp and pageantry, the US President and First Lady are being treated to a white-tie dinner in their honour.

The King and Queen are hosting the event inside the impressive St George's Hall. Some 160 guests, including politicians, celebrities, and dignitaries, will attend tonight's feast.

See the banquet menu in full here.

Melania Trump impressed royal watchers today after she showed another side of herself during her official welcome to the UK by King Charles and Queen Camilla.

The First Lady of the US joined her husband, Donald Trump, today as they were welcomed in Windsor.

According to reports, one of the day's highlights was Melania's warmer approach to her long-time "pen-pal" King Charles, whom she appeared to be delighted to see.

King Charles and US President Donald Trump were spotted sharing a private joke today, according to reports.

The US President was treated to an unprecedented display of military pomp and pageantry as his historic second state visit began with a spectacular ceremonial welcome.

But there was one moment when the two men appeared to share a private joke.

Two people have been arrested in Windsor over public order incidents linked to US President Donald Trump's state visit, Thames Valley Police said.

The force said: "A 56-year-old woman of no fixed abode was arrested following a public order incident on Park Street, Windsor, at around 12.55pm today. She was arrested on suspicion of assaulting an emergency worker and using threatening or abusive language likely to cause harassment, alarm or distress. She remains in police custody.

"A 36-year-old man of no fixed abode was arrested following a public order incident in Peascod Street, Windsor, at around 1.40pm today. He was arrested on suspicion of public order and assault. He remains in police custody."

A protester outside the castle said she was "disgusted" about Donald Trump's second state visit.

Tara Heinemann, who travelled from Herefordshire to protest outside the royal residence, held a sign which said "No banquets for fascists" and "Trump turning 2025 into 1984".

Speaking outside Windsor Castle, Ms Heinemann, 71, told the PA news agency: "I think Trump is incredibly dangerous. He's got severe character flaws and I think it just proves that anybody who craves power shouldn't be anywhere near it. I'm pretty disgusted.

"I really don't think the royal family should be hosting him. I don't think he should be spreading any aspect of his beliefs in this country."

She added: "We never, ever want to be a puppet of the Trump regime and what happens with bullies is if you don't stand up to them, they keep on bullying.

"I hate the idea of us being a lapdog to Trumpism."

Prince William gave a sweet response to wife Princess Kate after she admitted to struggling with her footing, a professional lip-reader claims.

The royal couple met with Donald Trump and the First Lady, Melania Trump, today as the pair continue their state visit to the UK.

Nicola J Hickling told The Express she believes the Princess of Wales complained "My heels are sinking” as they walked across the Windsor Castle lawn to greet Donald and Melania Trump.

Ahead of the handshakes, William thoughtfully glanced down, concern flickering across his face, and reportedly asked: "Are you okay though?".

The King and Queen have personally inspected the banquet table in St George's Hall ahead of tonight's state banquet.

Charles and Camilla surveyed the scene shown in footage posted on the official monarchy's social media.

Pink, purple and yellow blooms could be seen adorning the extravagant floral displays on the 50-metre table.

The monarch and Camilla shook hands with Household staff who were behind the meticulous planning and staging of the grand affair.

Nearly 5,000 people have stepped out in London to protest against Donald Trump's second state visit to the UK, as the US President received a royal welcome in Windsor.

According to the Metropolitan Police, up to 5,000 people have gathered in Parliament Square, where a rally from the Stop Trump Coalition is taking place.

Some carried small versions of the giant Trump baby blimp, an orange-tinted caricature of the blond-coiffed leader in a diaper, that made a big impression during his first visit in June 2019.

Others carried signs reading “No to Trump, no to fascism” and “Dump Trump.”

The crowd booed a counterprotester who held a sign that read “We Love Trump.”

The police deployed 1,600 officers as they expected members of about 50 different groups that included climate, anti-racism and pro-Palestinian activists.

A body language expert believed Donald Trump showed his true feelings when he met the Prince and Princess of Wales today.

Body language expert Inbaal Honigman believed that the disparity between the US President's "choreographed" body language and the Royal's "comfortable" and "natural" demeanor revealed the meeting was "quite a huge deal" to Donald Trump.

She theorised "the magnificence of the occasion is evident" for the US President.

Donald Trump and King Charles were said to be "grateful" after the spectacular Beating Retreat ceremony at Windsor Castle, which concluded with a flypast by the Red Arrows.

Lieutenant Colonel Simon Soskin of the Grenadier Guards, who was tasked with planning the ceremony, told Press Association: "We were asked to put on a spectacular performance to end the day of welcoming and so we pulled in our three bands, one for each service, invited the Americans, sprinkled in some bagpipers and it came together very well."

Asked what the King and US president said to the gathered military personnel who watched the ceremony, Lt Col Soskin said: "They took a few moments to say hello.

"I said hello to the president on the way past, which I like because my family are American, so I'll be telling my parents later.

"They were grateful, I think, the President was really pleased to see the junior American service personnel."

Donald Trump was treated to a spectacular display by the Red Arrows, which concluded the Beating Retreat ceremony at Windsor Castle this evening.

After the Red Arrows went over, the US President, who was joined by his wife and the King and Queen, reached over to the monarch and gently patted him on the arm.

The couples all looked up as the aircraft flew over.

They then applauded, and Mr Trump smiled and leaned towards Charles, spoke to him and patted him on the arm.

The pair then spoke to military personnel who were sitting on their left while Camilla and Melania Trump spoke to those on the other side.

Crowds of spectators outside Windsor Castle cheered as the Red Arrows flew over the royal residence.

During the flypast, a small group of people shouted "USA" as red, white, and blue smoke filled the skies above Windsor Castle.

Donald and Melania Trump, joined by the King and Queen, have now arrived on the East Lawn at Windsor Castle.

On their arrival, the Massed Bands of the Royal Marines, the Coldstream Guards and the Royal Air Force, with the Old Guard Fifes and Drums from the US Army Band, were on parade.

The couples, among with other guests, are about to watch the Beating Retreat military ceremony, which will be concluded with a display by the Red Arrows.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and his wife, Victoria, have arrived at the East Lawn at Windsor Castle.

The King and Queen will soon arrive alongside Donald Trump and his wife to watch the Beating Retreat military ceremony ahead of tonight's glittering state banquet.

The ceremony would conclude with a flypast by UK and US F-35 military jets and the Red Arrows; however, due to the weather, only the Red Arrows' display will take place.

Four F-35 military jets were originally due to take part in the display - two F-35Bs from number 207 Squadron, the United Kingdom's F-35B Operational Conversion Unit based at RAF Marham, and two F-35As from the 493rd Fighter Squadron, United States Air Force, based at RAF Lakenheath.

It would have been the first time US and UK aircraft have flown together for such a visit.

Royal fans have issued a complaint regarding Princess Kate's appearance with Donald Trump today.

The Princess of Wales looked radiant as she welcomed the US President at the Walled Garden inside Windsor Castle just before noon.

Kate looked stunning in the colour of the season as she sported a new, bespoke maroon dress by Emilia Wickstead, which she paired with a colour-matching hat by Jane Taylor.

Donald Trump was impressed after he was shown various items from the Royal Collection relating to the US following his lunch in the State Dining Room at Windsor Castle.

The US President headed to the Green Drawing Room, where he was shown a letter sent from President Abraham Lincoln to Queen Victoria in 1862 after Prince Albert's death. The letter was described as a "defining moment" in the special relationship between the UK and the US.

Mr Trump remarked "that is so amazing, that's the real deal" and leant forward to have a closer look.

He also reacted to a set of Georgian maps tracing the movement of American and British troops at the point of American independence from Britain, and showing where British soldiers surrendered.

The president, who had specifically requested to see the historic documents, remarked: "Wow. That's great. It was at the beginning, right?"

Royal librarian Stella Panayotova said afterwards: "The president requested the Georgian papers material, which are one of the most important sections of material in the Royal Archives.

"The president was particularly interested in the material in the Georgian papers that related to independence."

One of the maps showed the surrender of the British Army at Yorktown in 1781.

Donald Trump and his wife, Melania, have completed their visit to St George's Chapel in Windsor.

The American couple laid a wreath at the late Queen's tomb and emerged into the chapel's nave.

They were treated to a performance of the first movement from Vivaldi's Gloria, sung by a small group of young choristers from the chapel choir and directed by conductor James Vivian.

After a brief tour of the chapel, during which they were shown Henry VIII's vault and Sir Winston Churchill's stall plate denoting his membership of the Order of the Garter, Mr Trump said: "This was a great honour."

The Prince and Princess of Wales met President Donald Trump and the First Lady for a short private meeting following lunch, Kensington Palace said.

It's understood to have been a "warm and friendly" meeting between the two couples inside Windsor Castle.

No further details have been given.

A major part of Donald Trump's state visit has been altered thanks to the ever-reliable British weather.

This afternoon's flypast has been cancelled due to the conditions in Windsor. Skies above Windsor are thick with clouds that threaten heavy rainfall. It is understood that the joint flypast of both UK and US F-35 fighter jets, which had been due to roar over the Castle, will no longer take to the skies. However, the Red Arrows are still expected to go ahead.

A small number of protesters outside Windsor Castle are outnumbered by throngs of the world's media and a large police presence.

Police horses could be seen in the car park of Windsor and Eton Central railway station, with officers watching people arriving at the station and sniffer dogs patrolling the streets of the historic town.

On a grey afternoon in Windsor, one man held a sign which read "Fascist go home" while standing on the road outside Windsor Castle, which is flanked with American and British flags.

Donald Trump and his wife, Melania, were treated to a carriage procession through the Windsor estate towards the Castle earlier today following their arrival.

The First couple of the US were joined by the King and Queen and the Prince and Princess of Wales.

As the procession moved through the estate, the US and British national anthems could be heart.

Their route was lined by Armed Forces personnel from the Walled Garden to George IV Gate.

Mr Trump was seen in the Irish state coach sitting alongside the King, while his wife was joined by Queen Camilla in the Scottish state coach.

Prince William and Princess Kate travelled with in the semi-state Landau. They were joined by the ambassador of the US, Warren Stephens, and his wife.

US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump have arrived at the Galilee Porch entrance to St George's Chapel.

They were greeted by the Dean of Windsor, the Right Reverend Christopher Cocksworth, and Chapter Clerk Charlotte Manley.

Mr and Mrs Trump privately paid their respects to the late Queen Elizabeth II by laying a wreath at her tomb.

They will shortly hear a performance by a group of young choristers of Vivaldi’s Gloria and tour the chapel, which is the resting place of 11 monarchs, including Henry VIII.

Good afternoon. I'm Sophia Papamavroudi, and I'll be bringing you the latest updates on US President Donald Trump's visit to the UK into the evening.

Feel free to get in touch with me as I work at sophia.papamavroudi@reachplc.com

The President showed his excitement and behaved very animatedly as he joined the King and Queen to view items from the Royal Collection at Windsor Castle.

As a known Anglophile and effusive fan of the Royal Family, President Trump was quick to praise the Prince of Wales shortly after they met.

According to lip reader Jeremy Freeman, it was an exchange between Mr Trump and the King that showed his thoughts towards William.

When pointing at the Prince of Wales, Mr Trump was seen telling the King: “He's like you, somebody who can open up all the global connections and make things happen and I'll say he's a good man and if you want something he's a good guy.”

Read the full exclusive story here.

The Presidential couple have joined the King and Queen, as well as other members of the Royal Family, to view treasures from the Royal Collection which are linked to the US.

Among items on display is a first edition of The General Historie of Virginia by John Smith from 1624 and a letter to Lord North from George III about the ‘State of Rebellion’ in the American Colonies.

The Prince and Princess of Wales have shared a new video after they welcomed the President and First Lady to Windsor.

In following tradition, the King, Queen, President and First Lady have exchanged gifts to celebrate the state visit.

Full details of what has been presented are explained below:

Gifts:

From Their Majesties to President Trump:

• A bespoke, hand bound leather volume specially crafted by the Royal Bindery in Windsor Castle, to celebrate the 250th Anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.

• The Union Flag that flew above Buckingham Palace on the day of President Trump’s inauguration, on the 20th January 2025.

From Their Majesties to the First Lady:

• A silver and enamel bowl, crafted using traditional silversmithing techniques by Northern Irish artist, Cara Murphy and featuring Her Majesty’s cypher.

• A personalised Anya Hindmarch handbag.

From Their Majesties to President Trump and the First Lady:

• A silver photograph frame engraved with Their Majesties’ joint cypher.

From President Trump and the First Lady to His Majesty:

• Replica of a President Eisenhower Sword: This gift symbolizes profound respect and is a reminder of the historical partnership that was critical to winning World War II. The sword also symbolizes the enduring values and cooperative spirit that continues to define the relationship between the United States and Great Britian.

From President Trump and the First Lady to Her Majesty:

• Tiffany & Co. Vintage 18K Gold, Diamond & Ruby Flower Brooch: By showcasing an American company, this gift honours the idea of diplomacy; conveying messages of friendship, respect, and a commemoration of this historic visit. The brooch incorporates both The Queen’s birthstone (Rubies) as well as the First Lady’s birthstone (Diamonds).

Queen Elizabeth was known for her witty sense of humour and light-hearted jibes, and her time with the former US President was no different. Mr Bush made an error, which aged the late Queen by more than 200 years while welcoming his royal guests at the White House.

He said in his speech: "The American people are proud to welcome Your Majesty back to the United States, a nation you've come to know very well.

"After all, you've dined with ten U.S. presidents. You helped our nation celebrate its bicentennial in 17—in 1976."

Read the full story and how the late Queen reacted here.

The President and the First Lady were greeted by the Prince and the Princess of Wales as they arrived in Windsor.

Princess Kate is set to play a big role in the busy schedule, with a source previously revealing Trump's real thoughts at the prospect.

As reported by the Mail, a source has said: "The President and First Lady are thrilled that the Princess of Wales will play such a prominent role in their visit."

Read the full story here.

Princess Kate chose a maroon Emilia Wickstead dress, paired with a sculptural Jane Taylor hat and a striking feather brooch, creating a look that was both regal and seasonally appropriate. The deep tone, a standout shade for autumn and winter, underscored her reputation for modern elegance.

Her choice of hat carried an added touch of poignancy. Milliner Jane Taylor was a favourite of the late Duchess of Kent as she designed many of her most memorable hats over the years.

Read the full story here.

The President and First Lady will visit St George's Chapel and lay a wreath on Queen Elizabeth II's tomb, before receiving a tour of the chapel. In a major departure from tradition, the President and First Lady will join The King and Queen, The Prime Minister and Lady Starmer and US and British military families to view a Beating Retreat ceremony on the East Lawn of Windsor Castle. There could also be a flypast of Red Arrows and US F-35 military jets, if the weather permits. The State Banquet will take place in the evening in St George's Hall where both the King and the President will give speeches.

The King and Trump enjoyed a warm rapport this afternoon, laughing and cracking jokes.

At the end of the inspection, Charles said to Trump: “Watch the sword!” The monarch laughed as the Guard of Honour captain raised his blade to his bearskin, signalling the end of the inspection.

James Roscoe, the UK’s charge d’affaires in Washington, was seen at Windsor taking a picture of the spectacle during Donald Trump’s visit.

Mr Roscoe is the most senior diplomat at the embassy in Washington following Lord Mandelson’s sacking as ambassador over the Jeffrey Epstein scandal.

Veteran public servant Mr Roscoe has held a string of senior roles both within government and the royal household.

The King, Queen, President, the First Lady and the Prince and Princess of Wales will enjoy a lunch in the State Dining Room along with other members of the Royal Family.

After that, the group will view special items from the Royal Collection relating to the US.

Regiments of the Foot Guards were out in force to welcome the US President and First Lady to Windsor.

The President and First Lady were treated to an incredible military display in the Quadrangle of Windsor Castle.

The Prince and Princess of Wales were tasked with officially welcoming the President and First Lady to the UK. They then introduced them to the King and Queen.

The King and Queen have been reunited with President Trump and the First Lady.

The President has been welcomed to the UK by the Prince and Princess of Wales.

The Royal Navy Ceremonial Guard prepares ahead of the Carriage Procession.

The full details of the carriage procession through the grounds of Windsor Castle.

The route will begin at Frogmore Drive, travel down the George IV Gateway and end in the Quadrangle of Windsor Castle.

The Irish State Coach

The King

The President of the United States

The Scottish State Coach

The Queen

The First Lady

Semi-State Landau

The Prince of Wales

The Princess of Wales

The Honourable Warren Stephens, Ambassador of the United States of America

Mrs. Stephens, Spouse of Ambassador Warren Stephens

Ascot Landau

The Honourable Marco Rubio, Secretary of State of the United States of America and Acting National Security Advisor

The Honourable Scott Bessent, Secretary of the Treasury of the United State of America

The Honourable Susie Wiles, Assistant to the President and Chief of Staff

The Honourable Steve Witkoff, Assistant to the President and Special Envoy for Peace Missions

Ascot Landau

The Honourable Beau Harrison, Assistant to the President and Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations

The Honourable Nicholas Luna, Assistant to the President and Deputy Chief of Staff for Strategic Implementation

The Honourable Dan Scavino, Assistant to the President and Deputy Chief of Staff

Mrs. Hayley Harrison, Assistant to the President and Chief of Staff to the First Lady

Buckingham Palace has confirmed that the Queen will attend Trump's state visit.

It was understood that Her Majesty has recovered well and planned to take part in the busy schedule of engagements for the state visit of President Trump.

The Queen was forced to cancel her appearance at the Duchess of Kent's funeral yesterday and expressed her “deep regrets” at missing the service as she was recovering from an infection. Buckingham Palace announced ahead of the event that Camilla had to pull out of attending the requiem mass as she is recovering from acute sinusitis.

Huge crowds of protestors are continuing to gather in Windsor.

The iconic Red Arrows will soar over Windsor Castle to mark Donald Trump's state visit to the UK. This visit is historic, as it marks the first time a US president has been invited for a second state visit. The president and First Lady Melania Trump will be treated to a display of the finest British pageantry, with several other notable firsts expected during the occasion.

Trump will be welcomed with the first-ever joint UK-US military flypast, along with the largest guard of honour ever seen at a state visit. His visit will also mark the debut of the Beating Retreat - a military band ceremony dating back to the 17th century - at a state visit. Finally, in a historic farewell, a US military band will take part in the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace on Friday (19 September), marking the first time this has ever happened. Despite this, thousands of people are expected to protest during his stay.

Read the full story here.

Queen Elizabeth II may have been one of the most famous people in the world, but it turns out the US Secret Service treated her just as they would any other, especially when it came to President Barack Obama. In 2016, the late Queen enjoyed a visit from Obama during his farewell trip to Europe.

Obama timed the trip so he would be in Britain to wish Her Majesty a happy 90th birthday, with the pair believed to have had a very good relationship. However, while the trip itself was good, the late Queen caused quite a “serious row” between the Palace and the Secret Service by offering to pick up Obama when the then President landed in Windsor.

Read the full story here.

People who are protesting Donald Trump's state visit today have shown off artwork they produced as they await the President's arrival in Windsor.

Tyler Jones, 32, from Atlanta, Georgia came to see Windsor Castle but found it was closed for Trump’s visit.

Over the years, there have been various mixed accounts of whether or not the late Queen Elizabeth II liked US President Donald Trump. Having spent time with him in 2019 during his first UK state visit in his first premiership, the late monarch knew the President on a personal level, with some believing they got on well, while others claim she was not a fan.

Despite this, one author claimed in his book last year that she was sceptical of the President’s marriage to First Lady Melania Trump. In his book, A Voyage Around The Queen, Craig Brown said that the monarch made a six-word remark about the President’s marriage.

Read the full story here.

Donald Trump's Air Force One flight to London got dangerously close to another plane while travelling in the skies over New York, it has been reported.

The US President's Air Force One and Spirit Flight 1300, an Airbus A321 flying from Fort Lauderdale to Boston, were approaching Long Island when an air traffic controller observed their altitudes were close.

He also noticed that their flight paths were converging and attempted to warn the pilots of the Spirit flight to adjust their course.

Read the full story here.

The US President is expected to turn down a special gesture from King Charles at the state banquet at Windsor Castle this evening. After a day of pageantry around the Windsor Estate, Mr Trump and First Lady Melania Trump will be hosted by the monarch along with a further 160 guests.

Traditionally, a bespoke cocktail is served that references and honours the "special relationship" between the visiting nation and the host nation. The tradition created for international guests during State Visits was started by King Charles.

However, it is likely that President Trump will forego the tradition as he does not drink alcohol. "I've never had a drink," the President told Fox News in 2016.

Read the full story here.

There is a heavy police presence in Windsor as the final preparations are put in place for the state visit.

Donald Trump left the US for Britain yesterday with his flight arriving at Stansted Airport soon after 9pm. The visit marks Trump's second UK state visit – with his first taking place during the late Queen Elizabeth II's reign in 2019.

The US President, who has travelled with Melania Trump, will be greeted by the Prince and Princess of Wales this morning, before the couple join the King and Queen later today. Buckingham Palace recently announced that the public will not be able to greet the couple during their UK state visit. Instead, engagements will be held within the grounds of the private Windsor estate.

HAVE YOUR SAY HERE

There are a few 'do's' and do not's' when it comes to meeting the King, however, which will be followed by Trump this week.

David Johnston, the governor general of Canada at the time, was caught out for 'touching' the late Queen back in 2017.

He placed his hand under the Queen’s elbow as she descended a flight of steps, despite royal protocol dictating that nobody should touch the monarch.

Back in 1992, Australian Prime Minister Paul Keating was snapped putting his arm around the monarch during her royal tour of the country. After seeing the breaking of royal protocol, the BBC reported him as the “Lizard of Oz”.

President Trump will then be required to address the King as 'Your Royal Highness' on the first occasion, and then 'sir' going forward.

He will also not be required to arrive before the King, to not speak unless he is spoken to or sit or eat until he has.

Read the full list here

A mixture of US and Union flags line the streets of Windsor, as the Berkshire town prepared to welcome President Trump and the First Lady for an official state visit.There’s a heavy police presence as protests are expected to take place, even though the visit is behind closed doors.Yesterday’s sunshine has completely disappeared, with heavy grey clouds above threatening rain.

Dozens of Royal Borough Ambassadors in bright red jackets are gathered outside the entrance to Windsor castle, directing tourists.

A 7ft tall green fence was erected around the whole of Windsor Castle as a security precaution. Extensive searches by police, sniffer dogs were also conducted, while U.S. Marine Corps helicopters have been pictured circling over the town for several days.

Groups of protestors holding signs and images of Donald Trump have gathered outside Windsor Castle ahead of the US President's arrival.

he mayor of London Sir Sadiq Khan, who has previously been criticised by Mr Trump as "a nasty person" who has "done a terrible job" said on Tuesday night that "President Donald Trump and his coterie have perhaps done the most to fan the flames of divisive, far-right politics around the world in recent years".

Writing in the Guardian, Sir Sadiq added: "We must also tell President Trump and his supporters to stop talking down and denigrating our great capital city. London is a global success story, no matter how much he wants to pretend otherwise. It's open, dynamic and safer than every US state in terms of homicide rates."

The Metropolitan Police said it is preparing for "a significant operation" with as many as 50 protest groups expected to take part in Wednesday's march in central London.

More than 1,600 officers will be deployed on Wednesday, including 500 assisting from other forces, Scotland Yard said.

Trump's arrival in the UK last night coincided with a humiliating stunt in Windsor.

Protesters managed to project an image of Trump with notorious paedophile Jeffrey Epstein and disgraced royal Prince Andrew on the side of Windsor Castle.

Thames Valley Police said it arrested four people on suspicion of malicious communications after images of the US President and paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein were projected onto Windsor Castle, and two men for breaching airspace restrictions in place for Mr Trump's visit.

The 79-year-old was first invited to the UK for an official state visit in 2019, which set British taxpayers back millions.

The trip cost an eye-watering £3.9 million [$5.3m] as security levels were ramped in order to protect the controversial President.

Yesterday, the Queen pulled out of attending the Duchess of Kent’s funeral as she recovered from acute sinusitis.

Camilla, 78, was due to join the King and other members of the royal family at the farewell to the duchess at Westminster Cathedral in London on Tuesday afternoon.

A Buckingham Palace spokesperson said: "With great regret, Her Majesty The Queen has withdrawn from attendance at this afternoon's Requiem Mass for The Duchess of Kent as she is recovering from acute sinusitis.

"Her thoughts and prayers will be with The Duke of Kent and all the family."

But the Palace remained optimistic that she would be able to attend all the events today.

An update is expected to come from the Palace this morning.

The largest guard of honour ever at a state visit will be presented to Mr Trump for inspection, according to the Ministry of Defence (MoD).

Some 1,300 members of the British military and 120 horses will be involved, with 160 personnel from the Royal Marines and Royal Navy, 1,000 from the British Army and 140 from the Royal Air Force.

There will also be a special Beating Retreat military ceremony, the first time it will be performed at a state visit.

The spectacle will conclude with a joint flypast by UK and US F-35 fighter jets and the Red Arrows, which the MoD said will demonstrate the strength of the UK-US defence and security relationship.

Yesterday, Donald Trump said how much he was looking forward to the being hosted by his "friend" the King at Windsor Castle.

But the US President accidentally referred to the monarch as “Prince Charles” and wrongly suggested that it was the first state visit to be held at Windsor.

Asked what he hoped to achieve during the visit, Mr Trump told reporters: "My relationship is very good with the UK, and Charles, as you know, who's now King, is my friend.

"It's the first time this has ever happened where somebody was honoured twice. So, it's a great honour.

"And this one's at Windsor. They've never used Windsor Castle for this before. They use Buckingham Palace.

"And I don't want to say one's better than the other, but they say Windsor Castle is the ultimate, right? So it's going to be nice."

He continued: "Primarily it's to be with Prince Charles and Camilla. They're friends of mine for a long time, long before he was King, and it's an honour to have this King.

"And, you know, I think he represents the country so well. He's such an elegant gentleman and he represents the country so well."

US President Donald Trump and the First Lady arrived at Stansted Airport last night.

He was met by a Carpet Lining Party, comprised of the King’s Colour Squadron, Royal Air Force, on the Airport Apron.

They were greeted by the US Chief of Protocol, Ambassador Monica Crowley at the foot of the aircraft steps.

The President and the First Lady were then welcomed by The Viscount Hood, Lord-in-Waiting, on behalf of The King.

It is speculated that they will stay overnight at the US ambassador's residence in London before travelling to Windsor Castle on Wednesday, where he will be treated to a ceremonial welcome and a lavish state banquet.