U.S. President Donald Trump will embark on a historic second state visit to the United Kingdom this week, aiming to keep Prime Minister Keir Starmer on his good side during talks on trade, tariffs, and the war in Ukraine.

Trump, who has often praised his previous 2019 state visit when he met Queen Elizabeth II, will become the first U.S. president to receive a second state visit.

Britain is pulling out all the stops, from a military flyover and royal carriage ride with King Charles III to a state banquet at Windsor Castle. Trump will be kept away from large crowds and protesters, with all events staged outside London, where a major demonstration against the 79-year-old Republican is expected.

Prince William and Princess Catherine will welcome the Trumps to Windsor on Wednesday, followed by royal ceremonies and a private visit to the late Queen Elizabeth II’s grave. First Lady Melania Trump will tour the Queen Mary Dolls’ House and take part in a scouting event with Catherine.

Political Talks and Tensions

Thursday will focus on politics, with meetings at Starmer’s Chequers residence. Officials expect a “world-leading tech partnership” and a major civil nuclear deal to be signed. Ukraine will also be a key topic, with Starmer seeking to secure continued U.S. support for Kyiv.

Despite the royal fanfare, tensions remain. Trump plans to raise the issue of free speech protections in the UK, while ongoing scandals – including those linked to Jeffrey Epstein – continue to cast a shadow over the visit.