Trump and Melania wow at state banquet as King Charles and Queen Camilla roll out the red carpet: Recap

By JAMIE BULLEN, LIVE COVERAGE EDITOR and CHARLIE SPIERING, US POLITICAL REPORTER and REBECCA ENGLISH, ROYAL EDITOR and RACHEL BOWMAN, US NEWS REPORTER and NIKKI SCHWAB, CHIEF CAMPAIGN CORRESPONDENT and SAM CHISHOLM

Updated: 19:40 EDT, 17 September 2025

Melania Trump turned heads in a striking yellow gown as she joined husband Donald at a glittering state banquet with King Charles and Queen Camilla at Windsor Castle.

During the historic banquet, King Charles toasted Britain’s ‘remarkable bond’ with the US and in a warm and witty speech welcomed the Trumps to Windsor Castle. 

Meanwhile, in his toast, Trump boasted that the United States and the United Kingdom had brought peace, prosperity, and innovation around the world.

‘Together we have done more good for humanity than any two countries in all of history,’ he said.

The First Lady cinched her daring look with a pink belt and dangling blue earrings, while Queen Camilla opted for regal elegance in a floor-length navy gown, offset by a dazzling display of crown jewels.

Meanwhile, the Princess of Wales commanded the room as she stepped out in a full-length golden gown and Diana’s famous Lovers’ Knot tiara.

They were joined by American politicians, business tycoons and prominent UK politicians including Sir Keir Starmer and Leader of the Opposition Kemi Badenoch.  

The banquet came after the Trumps were welcomed onto the Windsor estate by the Prince and Princess of Wales before joining the King and Queen on a carriage procession to the castle. 

The US President and First Lady later paid their respects to the late Queen Elizabeth II before arriving to the lavish state banquet where Mr Trump and Charles are both expected to give speeches.

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Watch the State Banquet LIVE: King Charles and Trump raise a toast

What was Trump served for supper?

The menu for tonight’s dinner featured Hampshire watercress panna cotta, organic Norfolk chicken ballotine and vanilla ice bombe with a Kentish raspberry sorbet interior.

The 42.32metre – or 51.75yard – long table at St George’s Hall in Windsor Castle boasted 139 candles and 1,452 pieces of cutlery, all lovingly polished by hand.

Pink, purple and yellow blooms could be seen adorning the extravagant floral displays.

Now that the banquet is over… what’s next?

Tomorrow morning, Trump and Melania will formally say bye to the King and Queen.

Trump will then head to Chequers where he will meet Sir Keir Starmer and be greeted by a guard of honour from RAF Halton.

The two leaders will view the Sir Winston Churchill archives before holding a bilateral meeting.

They will join a business reception hosted by Chancellor Rachel Reeves and hold a joint news conference.

Meanwhile, Melania will view Queen Mary’s doll house with the Queen and visit the royal library.

She will then join the Princess of Wales at Frogmore Gardens to meet Dwayne Fields, the Scout Assoiciation’s chief scout.

A day to remember! William and Kate mark Trump’s State Visit on X

To mark the significant State Visit, the official X account of the Prince and Princess of Wales posted a video with some highlights.

It includes Kate and William greeting the President and his wife, Melania.

As well as clips of the ceremonial welcome from King Charles in Windsor.

Kate’s a golden girl! Princess wows in a lace gown and Diana’s tiara

The Princess of Wales commanded the room as she stepped out in a full-length golden gown and Diana’s famous Lovers’ Knot tiara for President Trump’s state banquet.

Although Kate has four tiaras at her disposal, the pearl-embroidered Lovers’ Knot is a firm favourite.

The future Queen has worn it to several state banquets, including when President Trump and the First Day visited the country during the first time he was in office in 2019.

The UK politicians shmoozing at the banquet

While the banquet is a royal affair, the guest list is also full of British politicians.

Sir Keir Starmer is in attendance as well as Leader of the Opposition Kemi Badenoch.

And they’re not the only ones shmoozing American politicians and business tycoons.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves and Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper have also been spotted.

Meanwhile, Reform UK leader Nigel Farage was not invited and Lib Dem leader Sir Ed Davey chose to boycott the banquet over the war in Gaza.

The First Lady, 55, accessorized the statement look with a chunky baby pink belt and emerald and diamond earrings.

And it seems her daring dress did not break royal protocol.

Charles and Trump raise a glass after speeches praising the other

Durin his speech, the king referenced the UK and US’s close bond, environmtneal concerns and the ongoign war in Ukraine.

But he also made sure to squeeze in a few joked including how he almost married in to the Nixon family.

He told the 160 guests at Windsor that he very nearly married Tricia Nixon, referring to how in the 1970s President Richard Nixon, was said to be ‘obsessed’ with the British Royal Family and even tried to arrange a marriage between him and his daughter.

‘Had the media succeeded in the 1970s in their own attempt at deepening the special relationship, I might have been married off within the Nixon family!’ he joked.

Kate Middleton stunned in a full-length golden gown as she attended a state banquet for Donald Trump and his wife Melania on Wednesday evening.

She looked dazzling, sporting a Phillipa Lepley silk crepe gown underneath a hand-embroidered gold Chantilly lace evening coat.

The Princess of Wales, 42, also donned the late Queen Elizabeth II’s and the King’s Royal Family Order and a blue sash, representing that she is a Dame Grand Cross of the Royal Victorian Order.

King Charles, Trump and the Prince and Princess of Wales pay touching tributes to their mothers

In a display not of soft power but of kind hearts, the king made sure to pay special tribute to the president’s beloved late mother Mary Anne MacLeod by including on the drinks menu a Hennessy Grande Champagne Cognac from 1912 – the year of her birth.

In a nod to Charles’ mother, the king included a Bowmore Queen’s Cask 1980, from Islay which was a gift to the late Queen Elizabeth in 1980, and was bottled for her Golden Jubilee in 2002.

And Catherine paid tribute to Prince William’s mother Princess Diana by pairing her hand-embroidered gold Chantilly lace evening coat with the famous Lover’s Knot tiara, which was once owned by Princess Diana and was kept in a safe at Buckingham Palace after her 1997 death before it was handed to Kate.

Spotted at the state banquet

Some of the biggest names in tech, media, and business were spotted attending the lavish dinner thrown in President Trump’s honour.

Media magnate Rupert Murdoch was seen looking for his seat along with OpenAI chief executive Sam Altman who was spotted mingling with other guests.

Apple boss Tim Cook also looked smart as he strutted in with Trump’s daughter Tiffany.

President Trump and King Charles enjoy the pomp and pageantry of a state banquet following speechesTrump’s kind words for Kate after cancer

Trump gave a special mention to the Princess of Wales, saying calling her ‘so radiant and so healthy, so beautiful’ before adding it was ‘really a great honor.’

Trump went off-script but was full of praise for the king

Trump went off script again as he spoke in awe of how the king had known the names of everyone of the 150 people he had just spoken to in the line-up, quipping ‘and some of them had bad names like x, y z, dash q 3.’

But he ended his remaks with praise for the royal family, wishing the Prince of Wales ‘success in the future’ and warmly commenting on Catherine’s health following her recovering fom cancer earlier this year.

He said: ‘I just wanted to say his Majesty has raised a remarkable son in His Royal Highness, the Prince of Wales. Really amazing, I have gotten to know you and you have an unbelievable success in future. To see her Royal highness Princess Catherine, so radiant and so healthy, so beautiful. ‘

King Charles references peace and environmentalism

The king praised Trump’s efforts to secure peace and mentioned environmentalism during his speech.

‘The United Kingdom was your partner in the first trade deal of your administration. Mr. President, bringing jobs and growth to both countries. I have no doubt we can go even further as we build this new era of our partnership,’ King Charles said.

‘Our countries are working together in support of crucial diplomatic efforts, not least of which Mr. President is your own personal commitment to finding solutions to some of the world’s most intractable conflicts in order to secure peace.

‘In striving for a better world, we also have a precious opportunity to safeguard and to restore the wonders and beauty of nature for the generations who follow us. We share the ambition and determination to preserve our majestic lands and waters, above all, to ensure that we have clean water, clean air and clean food.’

Donald Trump praises King Charles

Donald Trump praised King Charles during his speech at the state dinner.

‘Such respect for you and such respect for your country. For many decades, His Majesty the King has epitomized the fortitude, nobility and the spirit of the British monarchy and the British people,’ Trump said.

‘He’s dedicated himself to preserving the glory and unique character of this kingdom, restoring life to the rivers and streams, supporting the works of its artists and composers is planting trees and gardens in its countryside.’

Trump jokes he hopes visit is ‘last time’

The President started his speech by noting that he is the first world leader to have a second state visit.

‘Maybe that’s going to be the last time. I hope it is actually,’ he said. ‘But this is truly one of the highest honors of my life.’

Trump calls Princess Kate ‘radiant’ and ‘beautiful’ during speech

‘His Majesty has also raised a remarkable son in His Royal Highness, Prince of Wales. Really amazing, we’ve gotten to know you, and I think you’re going to have an unbelievable success in future,’ Trump said.

‘Melania and I are delighted to visit again with Prince William and to see Her Royal Highness Princess Catherine, so radiant and so healthy, so beautiful. It’s really a great honor.’

King Charles jokes British soil makes for ‘splendid golf courses’

King Charles joked with Donald Trump that British soil is great for golf courses.

‘You have spoken of your pride in your British roots. In fact, not only have you set foot on British soil twice in the last two months alone, but I understand that British soil makes for rather splendid golf courses,’ the king said.

King Charles tells Trump, ‘ I can’t imagine what our forbearers of 1776 would think today’

King Charles kicked off his remarks at the state banquet in Windsor Castle.

‘Mr President, as we approach the 205th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence next year, it’s remarkable to think just how far we have come,’ he said.

‘I can’t imagine what our forbearers of 1776 would think today.’

Special ‘unity’ cocktail on menu at state dinner

A ‘Transatlantic Whiskey Sour’ is on tonight’s menu at the royal state dinner in Windsor Castle.

The take on a whiskey sour combines Johnnie Walker Black and marmalade, ‘crowned with a pecan foam and garnished with a toasted marshmallow set on a star-shaped biscuit.’

The palace said the cocktail is to evoke ‘the warmth of a fireside S’more,’ according to CNN.

Donald Trump wears makeup on his hands at state dinner

The president was photographed with patches of makeup on his hands at the royal dinner inside Windsor Castle.

Melania Trump stuns in bold yellow gownDinner playlist packed with Trump’s favorites

The palace released the music playlist for tonight’s dinner, which includes several of Donald Trump’s favorite rally songs, according to the New York Times.

The Nessun Dorma aria from Giacomo Puccini’s opera Turandot, Tiny Dancer by Elton John and medley of James Bond themes are in the mix.

Princess Kate and Prince William arrive at dinner

Prince William arrives wearing a Windsor tail coat, with Princess Kate sporting a couture gown by British designer Phillipa Lepley.

Hosted by King Charles and Queen Camilla, Donald Trump, 79, and First Lady Melania, 55, were joined by his daughter Tiffany Trump and her business executive husband, Michael Boulos.

The Prince and Princess of Wales, the Duchess of Gloucester, and Sophie, the Duchess of Edinburgh, were among the royals.

Technocrats among the delegation of US executives included Apple CEO Tim Cook, and Open AI’s Sam Altman who will be sat next to Tory leader Kemi Badenoch.

Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump arrive at state dinner

The President and First Lady posed with King Charles and Queen Camilla at the state dinner inside Windsor Castle.

Melania wore a long-sleeved off-the-shoulder yellow gown, paired with a pink belt.

Queen Camilla choose a floor length, sleeved navy blue gown to wear with her crown jewels.

Opulent banquet hall set up in Windsor Castle for state dinner

The massive banquet table for the state dinner has been set at Windsor Castle in St George’s Hall.

The table can seat around 150 guests and is set using porcelain and silver-gilt from the Royal Collection.

Before dinner is served, King Charles will make a speech and propose a toast to Trump, who will then make is own speech and propose a toast to the king.

Inside the glitzy state banquet for the Trumps at St George’s Hall – with 1,452 pieces of cutlery polished by hand… as the full menu is revealed

By katrina schollenberger

Donald Trump is set to be wined and dined at his glitzy state banquet tonight.

Staff had started putting the 42.32 metre – or 51.75 yard – long table at St George’s Hall in Windsor Castle together a week ago.

It boasted 139 candles, 1,452 pieces of cutlery, all lovingly polished by hand, and seated 160 guests, each with five glasses by their setting.

The menu for tonight’s dinner features Hampshire watercress panna cotta, organic Norfolk chicken ballotine and vanilla ice bombe with a Kentish raspberry sorbet interior.

Donald Trump and King Charles pose for smiley photo

President Donald Trump and King Charles stood next to each other with beaming smiles as they posed for a photo on Wednesday.

The White House shared the photo on social media and captioned it with an American Flag emoji, the handshake emoji and an emoji of the Union Jack.

Why Melania Trump did not curtsy to the Royal family

President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump did not curtsy when they met the Royal family.

While many politicians often curtsy when in the company of the Royal family, the Trumps are not required to follow that protocol.

Visiting heads of state are not required to welcome the royals with the gesture, although Michelle Obama reportedly curtsied when in private company with the late Queen Elizabeth II.

Anti-Trump protesters march through London

Protesters marched through London as part of a demonstration against Trump’s state visit.

Melania Trump appeared to leave Queen Camilla in an awkward situation after Princess Kate interrupted their conversation.

Donald Trump gushes over ‘beautiful’ Kate Middleton

Donald Trump told Princess Kate she is ‘so beautiful’ when she greeted him off Marine One on the Windsor estate.

‘You’re beautiful, so beautiful,’ the president said as she shook hands with the princess.

King Charles was so excited to greet his ‘friend’ Donald Trump that his wife, Queen Camilla , was left with no option but to make an ‘unprecedented correction,’ according to a body language expert.

Trump’s subtle exchange with King Charles that signifies their close bond

By katrina schollenberger

Donald Trump was seen placing his hand on King Charles’ back shortly before the pair were seated to watch the Beating Retreat military procession on the East Lawn at Windsor Castle during the president’s historic state visit.

‘For Trump there is probably a form of compulsion to touch Charles “because I can,”‘ body language expert Judi James revealed to the Daily Mail.

‘Royals are notoriously un-tactile and it used to be a severe flaunting of protocol rules to touch a monarch but as the most powerful man in the Western world, Trump seems to bask in the fact that he can call the King “A friend” and use the kind of love language that friends do with each other, which is regular touches that act as tie signs of affection, appreciation and respect.’

James explained that the president’s tactile behavior with Charles throughout the first day of his visit is also primarily about choreography and a sense of mutual respect.

Melania Trump wearing such a huge hat during her second UK state visit gives a clear signal that she ‘desires to hide,’ a body language expert has boldly claimed.

The First Lady, 55, wore a wide-brimmed purple hat and a Christian Dior Haute Couture dark gray skirt suit that flared out at the waist and fell just below her knees.

Donald Trump is making history with an unprecedented second state visit to the United Kingdom.

His last official visit was in 2019, when he dined with Queen Elizabeth and attended a commemoration of the 75th anniversary of D-Day in Portsmouth.

Questions loom over what Trump and King Charles are discussing

Donald Trump and King Charles are spending one-on-one time together during the president’s visit.

However, it is unknown what they are discussing. According to the New York Times, the king has deep concerns over major topics, including supporting Ukraine and climate change.

Trumps retreat to Windsor Castle for an outfit change

Donald Trump and his wife, Melania, have retreated to their guest room inside Windsor Castle while they rest and get dressed for the state banquet, according to the New York Times.

Protesters gather outside Parliament

Thousands have gathered outside Parliament Square to protest Donald Trump’s visit to the UK.

Trump’s wind whipped hair

By katrina schollenberger

President Donald Trump lost a war against the wind on Wednesday – with his hair flying all over the place during a musical performance and flyover at Windsor Castle.

The president and first lady sat in a viewing stand alongside King Charles and Queen Camilla and took in what’s called a Beating Retreat – a military band spectacle.

Trump’s blond locks got tussled by the wind, which was so intense that part of the planned military flyover had to be cancelled due to the weather.

Both First Lady Melania Trump and Camilla were sporting hats, with the Queen holding onto hers during one of the stronger wind bursts.

Prince William and Kate had private meeting with the Trumps, sources say

Prince William and Kate had a private meeting with President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump at Windsor Castle, a royal source told CNN.

No details about the conversation have been released, but it was described as ‘warm and friendly.’

The Prince and Princess of Wales greeted the US President and his wife when they arrived at Windsor Castle earlier today.

Red Arrows display red, white and blue smoke during flyover

The Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team, the Red Arrows, displayed trails of red, white and blue smoke as they flew over Windsor Castle.

Trump and King Charles III applauded as the nine Royal Air Force jets flew by.

The band played Auld Lang Syne, a traditional Scots song about remembering old friendships, as the jets soared above.

Watch live: Flypast to mark Donald Trump’s historic UK state visit

Watch our live stream of the Beating Retreat military ceremony followed by a flypast of British and American military jets

What is the Beating Retreat?

Donald Trump and King Charles are currently watching a Beating Retreat military ceremony involving around 200 British and American musicians.

The ceremony dates back to the 17th century but is being performed at a US state visit for the first time.

The origins of Beating Retreat go back to when drums heralded the closing of camp gates and the lowering of flags at the end of the day of fighting.

Today, it has become a significant event for military musicians taking place on Horse Guards Parade each year for two successive evenings in June.

The ceremony has evolved into a colourful pageant of military music and precision drill carried out by the the Mounted Bands of the Household Cavalry and the Massed Bands of the Household Division.

Pictures: King and Trump attend military ceremony side by side

The King and US President Donald Trump joined the Queen and First Lady Melania Trump on steps leading to the East Lawn.

British and US military personnel stood in silence as the four made their way to their seats to view the Beating Retreat – a rendition involving around 200 musicians.

The King looked at Mr Trump before they sat down and the ceremony began.

Charles was seen chatting with Camilla and Mr Trump as they were seated.

Trump says tour of late Queen’s final resting place is ‘great honour’

President Trump said ‘this was a great honour’ after he was given a tour of St George’s Chapel which included spending ten minutes at the tomb of Queen Elizabeth II.

The President and First Lady Melania laid a wreath at the late Queen’s final resting place.

A ledger marks her tomb at the King George VI Memorial Chapel, part of St George’s Chapel where she was laid to rest alongside her husband Prince Philip three years ago this Friday. They emerged from the private event around ten minutes later and treated to a musical performance from Choristers of St George’s Chapel choir.

Sixteen members aged seven to 13 years old performed Vivaldi’s Gloria First Movement with Luke Bond, organist  and James Vivian conductor.

Trump led a round of applause after the finished.

Afterwards they posed for photos with the choir and Trump waved his hand at the media and made the children laugh after saying: ‘You see those people over there, they will make you famous.’

King Charles and Donald Trump arrive for military ceremony

Donald Trump and King Charles have arrived together on the East Lawn of Windsor Castle for a military ceremony never previously performed on a state visit.

British and American musicians are participating in a special Beating Retreat military ceremony.

The United States Army Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps and the Royal Marines are among those involved in the ceremony.

Keir Starmer joins Trumps and the royals at military ceremony

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and his wife Lady Starmer have joined British and US military personnel on the East Lawn of Windsor Castle for the Beating Retreat ceremony.

The Starmers will dine with the Trumps at the Windsor Castle state banquet this evening before hosting the couple at Chequers tomorrow.

Flypast scaled back because of poor weather but Red Arrows to go ahead

A flypast that was due to take place over Windsor Castle to mark US President Donald Trump’s second state visit has been scaled back due to bad weather.

Four F-35 military jets were 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 – but will no longer take to the skies.

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

A display by the Red Arrows is still due to happen.

A fleet of British and American F-35 stealth jets will roar through the sky alongside the RAF’s famed Red Arrows in an historic military flypast honouring Donald Trump’s state visit today.

For the first time, airwings of the world’s most advanced fighter jets will join a huge spectacle to celebrate the arrival of the visiting US President – in a display the government has touted as unprecedented.

UK and US musicians will perform 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 was a demonstration of the strength of the UK-US defence and security relationship.

The Royal Air Force is to be equipped with 12 new F-35A aircraft – the jet flown by the US air force in the flypast, it was announced in June.

Britain currently already has around 37 F-35B stealth jets, which are built to take off and land on the Royal Navy’s two £3.5billion Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft carriers.

See our graphic below on when and where you can see the Red Arrows this afternoon

Trump’s private tribute to late Queen Elizabeth

by Nikki Schwab, Chief Campaign Correspondent

In a somber moment, President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump laid a wreath at the tomb of Queen Elizabeth II – who hosted the Trumps for a state dinner at Buckingham Palace in 2019.

The quiet moment didn’t take place in front of the press.

The president and first lady were then serenaded by a children’s choir alongside other White House officials at St. George’s Chapel, in the grounds of Windsor Castle.

Melania and the president greeted the 16 children afterward, with the First Lady breaking out a smile under her large plum-colored hat.

‘See the people over there? That’s the media,’ Trump cheekily said after they posed for a group picture.

REBECCA ENGLISH: The gift given to Donald Trump that money cannot buy

The US President was given a gift by the King today that money cannot buy.

In the official exchange between the two countries at Windsor Castle, Their Majesties gave President Trump  the Union Flag that flew above Buckingham Palace on the day of his inauguration, on the 20th January 2025.

The inspired – and totally unique – offering was accompanied by 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.

First Lady Melania was also gifted a silver and enamel bowl, crafted using traditional silversmithing techniques by Northern Irish artist, Cara Murphy and featuring Her Majesty’s cypher, as well as a personalised Anya Hindmarch handbag.

According to tradition, Their Majesties also gave the Trumps a silver photograph frame engraved with their joint cypher.

In return President Trump and the First Lady gave King Charles a replica of a President Eisenhower Sword.

Significantly, the White House was at pains to emphasise that it symbolised profound respect and is a reminder of the historical partnership that was critical to winning World War II.

The sword is also said to encapsulate the ‘enduring values and cooperative spirit’ that continues to define the relationship between the United States and Great Britain.

Watch: Queen Camilla’s awkward moment with Melania Trump

Queen Camilla momentarily found herself in a rather awkward social situation today as she welcomed Donald and Melania Trump to Windsor Castle for the couple’s historic second official state visit.

In the Windsor estate’s Walled Garden, Camilla, 78, and the First Lady, 55, appeared deep in conversation as they stood on the steps, with the King and President Trump close by.

However, when Melania, 55, spotted the Princess of Wales approaching, the President’s wife quickly turned in Kate’s direction to greet her, apparently calling time on her chat with the Queen.

And Kate reciprocated, leaving Prince William behind as she headed straight for the First Lady.

An animated conversation between Melania and Kate followed, with Queen Camilla left looking on.

Prince William and Kate had previously escorted the President and First Lady on the short walk across the grass, onto the gravel path outside Victoria House where the King and Queen were waiting.

Watch: Trump arrives at St George’s Chapel to pay respects to late Queen

Donald Trump and Melania have arrived at St George’s Chapel to pay their respects to the late Queen Elizabeth II.

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

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

They will then hear a performance by a group of young choristers and have a tour of the chapel, which is the resting place of 11 monarchs including Henry VIII.

Watch: Kensington Palace release slick video of Donald Trump’s arrival

Kensington Palace has released a slick video of Donald Trump’s arrival in Windsor after the Prince and Princess of Wales greeted the President off his Marine One helicopter.

The royal couple are playing a leading role on the first full day ofTrump’s historic second state UK visit and will appear at a state banquet at Windsor Castle this evening.

Revealed: The royals who ate lunch with the Trumps…and those that didn’t

Six members of the Royal family joined Donald Trump for lunch at Windsor Castle.

The King, Queen, the Prince and Princess of Wales and the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester all sat down with the US president in the state dining room.

They were also joined by Mr Trump’s entourage and James Roscoe, who is the new interim ambassador to the US in place of Lord Mandelson, and the King’s key aides.

The Duchess of Edinburgh has left for an overseas tour and the Duke of Edinburgh is also away on a foreign trip.

The Princess Royal was not at the lunch.

‘Trump represents everything we hate’: The London protest against president’s visit

A demonstration against Donald Trump’s state visit is building in London this afternoon.

Organised by the Stop Trump UK coalition, which consists of more than 50 campaign groups, protesters are marching in the capital in response to Trump receiving a red carpet welcome in Windsor.

Officers at the protest said according to the latest estimates there are at least 3,000 people in the march.

Zoe Gardner, a political commentator and one of the organisers of today’s protest, told the BBC Trump ‘represents everything that we hate’.

She told the broadcaster:

We want our government to show some backbone, and have a little bit of pride and represent that huge feeling of disgust at Donald Trump’s politics in the UK.

The Metropolitan Police said it is preparing for “a significant operation” with more than 1,600 officers deployed today including 500 assisting from other forces.

Pictures: Trumps head to Green Drawing Room after lunch

Donald and Melania Trump have been pictured inside the Green Drawing Room at Windsor Castle to view a number of exhibits promoting the UK-US relationship.

Police speak to driver of Trump-Epstein van in Windsor

Police officers in Windsor have spoken with the driver of an ad van which showed a picture of Donald Trump with paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein.

Pictures earlier this morning appeared to show the vehicle being driven in the Berkshire town.

A Thames Valley Police spokesperson said:

Security checks are a necessary part of our response to ensure the safety of the state visit and all those in the area.

The driver was at risk of breaching the Road Traffic Regulations Act, and after a brief conversation with officers the motorist left the area.No arrests were made and no vehicles were seized.

We have been clear with the public that an enhanced police presence would be in place due to the state visit.

Buckingham Palace reveal the gifts exchanged between King Charles and Donald Trump

Donald Trump and his First Lady Melania will give King Charles a replica of a sword presented to President Dwight Eisenhower Sword as a symbol of ‘historical partnership’ between the US and UK.

Meanwhile, the King and Queen will gift Trump a bespoke, hand-bound leather book to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, which was adopted in Philadelphia on July 4 1776, as well as the union flag that was hoisted above Buckingham Palace on the day of the president’s inauguration earlier this year.

To Melania, Charles and Camilla will gift a silver and enamel bowl featuring the Queen’s cypher crafted by Northern Irish artist Cara Murphy, a renowned silversmith who has created works for Downing Street and the Grand National.

The First Lady will also receive a personalised Anya Hindmarch handbag.

The King is set to receive a replica of a President Eisenhower Sword which, according to Buckingham Palace, symbolises ‘profound respect’ and acts as a ‘reminder of the historical partnership that was critical’ to winning the Second World War.

‘The sword also symbolises the enduring values and co-operative spirit that continues to define the relationship between the United States and Great Britain,’ the palace added.

Meanwhile the Queen will be gifted a Tiffany & Co vintage 18-carat gold, diamond and ruby flower brooch.

The King, Queen, Prince William and Kate welcomed Donald Trump and his wife Melania to Britain today as the US President’s historic second state visit began.

The Prince and Princess of Wales were deployed at the start of the royal charm offensive to greet the Trumps in the Walled Garden on the Windsor estate when the Marine One helicopter arrived – with Mr Trump telling Kate: ‘You’re beautiful’, according to a lip reader.

In one of a number of flourishes being added to the American leader’s trip, the helicopter landed on the lawn of the garden nestled in the private Home Park.

William and Kate welcomed the Trumps and walked a short distance with them to meet King Charles III and Queen Camilla outside Victoria House to launch the trip.

The Queen spent yesterday afternoon resting at Windsor Castle, having pulled out of attending the Duchess of Kent’s funeral at Westminster Cathedral after suffering from acute sinusitis – but royal aides said she had recovered to greet the Trumps today.

Read our top story on the Daily Mail website here:

Trump to examine exhibits celebrating UK-US relationship

The Green Drawing Room has been laid out with exhibits celebrating the UK’s bond with the US, ready for US President Donald Trump to see after lunch.

The semi-state room is often used as the backdrop for official royal photographs.

It was where the wedding portraits of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex were taken in 2018.

The Queen and Duke of Edinburgh were also pictured there together to commemorate the Diamond Jubilee.

It features striking silk green walls hangings, which match the fabric of the antique settees and chairs, and elaborate gilded panels and doors.

Designed for the extravagant King George IV, it was originally known as the Library.

Its gilded ceiling boasts a geometric lozenge shape and the ceiling-height bay windows look out over the East Terrace.

The Green Drawing Room was one of the rooms damaged in the 1992 Windsor Castle fire, but its carpet, which was shown at the Great Exhibition in 1851, survived the blaze.

What Donald and Melania Trump said to William and Kate

The president commented on Princess Kate’s beauty and Prince William joked after Trump spoke about their conversations.

‘We have lots to catch up with, and there’s been lots of changes,’ Trump said.

The Trumps exited Marine One shortly after noon, as the president shook hands with the Prince and Princess of Wales.

Hundreds of protesters gather in London to demonstrate against Trump visit

Hundreds of protesters have gathered in Portland Place, central London, near the BBC’s Broadcasting House to protest against Donald Trump’s second state visit.

Some protesters are carrying banners which read: ‘No to the racism, no to Trump.’

Others have small versions of the Trump baby blimp, a 20ft iteration of which was carried through crowds of thousands during protests against the US president’s first state visit in 2019.

The campaigners will begin to march towards Whitehall at around 3pm.

Watch: Why Trump and First Lady didn’t curtsy after meeting Royal family

While many politicians often curtsy when in the company of the Royal family, the Trumps are not required to follow that protocol.

That’s because visiting heads of state are not required to welcome the royals with the gesture, although Michelle Obama reportedly curtsied when in private company with the late Queen Elizabeth II

PODCAST: Queens, Kings & Dastardly Things – INSIDE King Charles’ State Banquet for President Trump

Listen to the Daily Mail’s new Queens, Kings & Dastardly Things podcast taking listeners inside King Charles’s state banquet for Donald Trump in Windsor tonight.

Hosted by Royal Historians Robert Hardman and Professor Kate Williams, our podcast looks at the Royal Family – the secrets, the palace intrigues, and the Crown’s bloodiest moments

Listen or watch the latest episode here:

Donald Trump’s extraordinary Daily Mail column on ‘outstanding’ King Charles

Editor’s note: This column by President Donald Trump was originally published in September 2022 following the death of Queen Elizabeth II. In the deeply personal tribute, Mr Trump wrote movingly of his time with Her Majesty and his fondness for the United Kingdom.

The whole of civilization is in mourning. The passing of Queen Elizabeth II, the enlightened monarch who reigned over the United Kingdom for 70 years, is a loss felt by billions around the world.

This week, and in the weeks ahead, we especially grieve for the royal family — we can only imagine their sorrow.

And we express our solidarity with all the people of the United Kingdom and every realm of the Commonwealth she so loved.

Few in history have more fully exemplified the traits of dignity, steadfastness, resolve, duty, and patriotic devotion.

Read Donald Trump’s column here:

The clothes chosen by Kate, Melania and Queen Camilla to mark historic state visit

The three women at the centre of today’s state visit: Queen Camilla, the Princess of Wales and Melania Trumnp certainly dressed for the occasion.

Following a recent bout of illness, Camilla wore a sapphire blue dress, a coat by Fiona Clare and a hat by Philip Treacy along with a sapphire and diamond brooch.

Meanwhile Kate sported a maroon-coloured Emilia Wickstead dress with a £2,330 hat by Jane Taylor, and a burgundy Chanel bag that she has carried multiple times before.

And Melania looked chic in a Christian Dior Haute Couture dark gray skirt suit that flared out at the waist and fell just below her knees. She wore her blonde tresses in a slick bun that was largely hidden by a wide-brimmed wool hat in a brighter purple hue.

Watch: Moment King Charles joked with Donald Trump during guard of honour inspection

President Trump appeared delighted at being asked to inspect the Guard of Honour.

The King appeared to make a point – possibly because of previous criticism levelled at the US leader for walking in front of the late Queen – of inviting his guest to walk ahead of him as they traversed the first two lines.

The King also lagged slightly behind as the US leader chatted with Lieutenant Colonel Storm Green, a South African officer of the Coldstream Guards who is the Commander of London Central Garrison.

He paused for a second to take in the spectacle, as the Queen and Melania chatted happily on the Royal Dais, before walking forward.

A few seconds later he appeared again, walking ponderously, before stopping to thank the Lt Col profusely – four times in fact.

The King appeared to crack a joke, touching President Trump on the arm as the Guard of Honour captain raised his blade to his bearskin signalling the end of the inspection and saying: ‘Watch the sword!’ before chuckling and looking coyly at his guest.

Watch: Donald Trump and King Charles ride carriage to Windsor Castle

Here’s footage of the carriage procession as King Charles and Donald Trump rode together to Windsor Castle inside the Irish state coach.

Revealed: How William introduced Donald Trump to King Charles

‘This is my father,’ said the Prince of Wales as he led the royal greeting for President Trump as he arrived at Windsor Castle.

The Prince and Princess of Wales walked out to greet Donald and Melania Trump.

Three US military helicopters landed in the walled garden by Victoria House, the first time that the lawn has been used as a landing site.

The last helicopter to land, known as Marine One, was carrying the President and First Lady, who were met by the Prince and Princess of Wales.

They then walked the short distance to Victoria House where they were greeted by the King and Queen.

Watch: Trump tells Kate ‘you’re beautiful’ after landing at Windsor estate

Donald Trump complimented the Princess of Wales by telling her ‘you’re so beautiful’ when she greeted him off Marine One.

Trump was seen remarking on the royal’s looks as Kate and William were the first to meet him and Melania after they landed on the Windsor estate 20 minutes later than expected

Trumps to pay respects to late Queen

This afternoon, the Trumps will visit St George’s Chapel, Windsor, to lay a wreath on the tomb of Queen Elizabeth II.

Afterwards, The President and First Lady will be given a short tour of the chapel and will hear a musical performance from the choir.

Later, they will join the King and Queen, the Prime Minister and Lady Starmer – as well as US and British military families to view a Beating Retreat ceremony on the East Lawn of Windsor Castle.

The ceremony, another royal first laid on especially for the occasion, will conclude with a flypast by UK and US F-35 military jets and the Red Arrows, subject to weather conditions.

Trump was hosted by the Queen on his first UK state visit in 2019

Melania exudes elegance as meets the Royal family

by Jane Herz, US Femail Reporter

Melania Trump exuded elegance as she arrived to meet the British Royal family alongside husband Donald Trump in a historic state visit to the UK.

The 55-year-old looked effortlessly chic in a Christian Dior Haute Couture dark gray skirt suit that flared out at the waist and fell just below her knees.

She wore her blonde tresses in a slick bun that was largely hidden by a wide-brimmed wool hat in a brighter purple hue.

Melania was expertly poised in her heels as she walked alongside Donald, Prince William and Princess Kate in the Walled Garden on the Windsor estate.

The group walked a short distance to meet King Charles III and Queen Camilla outside Victoria House to officially launch the trip.

Trump receives stunning gesture from King Charles during guard of honour

President Trump appeared to be delighted at being asked to inspect the guard of honour during the ceremonial welcome.

He was invited by the King to walk in front of him, periodically speaking to some of the guardsmen standing to attention.

He then thanked the commanding officer profusely – four times in fact – for the honour.

Watch our video of the moment King Charles shared a joke with Donald Trump during the inspection:

Peter Mandelson’s replacement spotted at Trump’s welcome ceremony

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

Lord Mandelson was last week sacked as US ambassador after a series of devastating emails suggested the Labour grandee appeared to have plotted with his paedophile ‘best pal’ Epstein to save him from looming charges of molesting teenagers.

Watch: Trump salutes American national anthem REBECCA ENGLISH: William takes the lead as royals give Trump a truly British welcome

The President and First Lady have landed at Windsor Castle.

Marine One, along with two other US helicopters carrying American dignitaries and support staff, landed on the lawn of the Walled Garden, in a more cinematic entrance than most State visits.

The Prince and Princess of Wales, who had been waiting at nearby Victoria House to meet them, stepped across the grass in the bluster of wind from the propellers.

Prince William took the lead, welcoming the Trump with a handshake and engaging them in conversation, stretching an arm out to his wife to draw her in.

Prince William and Catherine escorted the President and First Lady on the short walk across the grass, onto the gravel path outside Victoria House where the King and Queen were waiting.

The house, built in 1844, is not usually part of royal engagements, tucked away in the Windsor estate opposite a lawn large enough for the US contingent to land on.

The King greeted Mr and Mrs Trump warmly and formally, with handshakes for both.

The Waleses stood back, the Princess putting her hand briefly on the Prince’s back.

The King seemed keen to introduce Trump to his senior staff, ushering him over to the palace’s private secretaries and senior equerries.

After a minute of conversation, the state carriages, drawn by horses, pulled up and the royals and their American guests climbed in.

The King and Trump sat together in the first carriage, with the King appearing to point out parts of its ornate decoration.

The Queen and Mrs Trump took the second, smiling for the cameras as the procession took off on its 2km route through the Windsor estate.

It is very windy (partly helicopter induced) on the ground with a light drizzle.

Truly a very British welcome.

Pictures: Trump inspects his Guard of Honour at Windsor Castle

Here’s the latest pictures we can show you of Donald Trump inspecting troops at his Guard of Honour outside Windsor Castle.

Trump was seen speaking to soldiers and walking ahead of King Charles who has formally welcomed him to the UK on his historic second state visit to the UK.

Picture: Trump salutes American national anthem before inspecting troops

The royal carriage procession arrived for the full ceremonial welcome in the Windsor Castle quadrangle with the largest ever guard of honour for such an occasion.

The state colours of the Grenadier Guards, Coldstream Guards and Scots Guards are assembled to greet the party of the King and Donald Trump – the first time that three state colours, rather than just one, will be on parade at such an occasion.

The King and Queen and the President and First Lady took their places on the dais and Lt Col Green ordered: ‘Royal salute, present arms.’

The state colours were lowered and the national anthem of the US played as the President saluted and the First Lady placed her hand on her chest.

Lt Col Green invited the President to inspect the guard saying:

Mr President, the guard of honour of the Grenadier Guards, the Coldstream Guards and the Scots Guards are present and ready for your inspection.

Pictures: Royals roll out red carpet as Trump arrives in Windsor

Here are some of our favourite pictures following Donald Trump’s arrival in Windsor this afternoon.

Trump landed on the Windsor estate at 12.14pm – nearly 20 minutes later than expected.

Shortly after, the Prince and Princess of Wales emerged from Victoria House where they had been waiting and made their way side-by-side across the grass to Marine One

​Kate was dressed in a burgundy Emilia Wickstead dress, matching hat by Jane Taylor and wearing a feather brooch.

As Trump stepped from the aircraft, William and Kate waited at the bottom of the step to greet him.

The president shook hands warmly with William and patted the heir to the throne affectionately on his right arm.

Kate then shook hands with Trump with the pair chatting throughout.

King Charles and Donald Trump about to inspect Guard of Honour

The carriage procession carrying the King and US president travelled through the George IV gate and swept into Windsor Castle’s quadrangle.

Waiting in the centre of the grass-covered square was the unprecedented guard of honour, believed to be the largest assembled in living memory.

It was drawn from three of the British Army’s most prestigious regiments – Coldstream, Scots and Grenadier Guards – each with their own captain and state colour.

Behind them were the Massed Bands of The Household Division and the Massed Pipes and Drums who played the American national anthem followed by the British as the carriages approached the royal dais.

Windsor carriage procession: King and Trump ride together to castle

King Charles and Donald Trump are travelling together for the procession on the Windsor estate.

The Procession Route will see the party travel along Frogmore Drive, through the George IV Gateway and into the Quadrangle of Windsor Castle.

Here’s who will be together for the event:

Warren Stephens, Ambassador of the United States of America

Harriet Stephens, wife of Ambassador Warren Stephens

Marco Rubio, Secretary of State of the United States of America

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

Susie Wiles, Assistant to the President and Chief of Staff

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

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

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

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

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

Watch: Trump greets King as Kate welcomes Melania

Watch the moment Donald Trump was greeted by King Charles on the Windsor estate while First Lady Melania was welcomed by the Princess of Wales and Queen Camilla.

Trumps head to Windsor Castle on carriage procession

The Trumps joined the King and Queen and William and Kate for a carriage procession through the Windsor estate towards the castle.

Eighty soldiers from the House Cavalry Mounted Regiment formed the Sovereign’s Escort travelling with the carriages, with the Life Guards dressed in their red tunics and white plumed helmets and Blues and Royals in their blue tunics and red plumes.

The processional route, which was not open to the public, was lined by 22 half-companies of personnel from throughout the Royal Navy, the Royal Marines, the British Army and the Royal Air Force.

Making their way to the castle, the Trumps are expected to pass not far from Frogmore House, where the Duke and Duchess of Sussex had their evening wedding reception, and also close to Frogmore Cottage, briefly home to Harry and Meghan before they quit the working monarchy and moved to America.

Pictured: King Charles greets Donald Trump

The King has welcomed Donald Trump to Windsor.

As the pair met, a 41-round gun salute was fired from six First World War era guns simultaneously by The King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery on the East Lawn of Windsor Castle, while the Honourable Artillery Company stages a salute more than 20 miles away at the Tower of London.

The scale and spectacle of the military ceremonial on show for Mr Trump is unprecedented and marks the largest military ceremonial welcome for a state visit to the UK in living memory.

Watch: Moment Donald Trump landed in Windsor

Here’s the moment Donald Trump and Melania were welcomed in Windsor by the Prince and Princess of Wales.

Royals out in force for Trump’s welcome parade

The Royal Family was out in force today as US President Donald Trump was welcomed to Windsor Castle for an historic – but also highly controversial- second State Visit.

The Prince and Princess of Wales launched the regal charm offensive by meeting the American leader and First Lady Melania fresh off their helicopter, Marine One, in the grounds of the 1,000-year-old royal residence.

The couple will take their VIP visitors to be formally introduced to the King and Queen, as a Royal Salute is fired from the East Lawn of the castle and simultaneously at the Tower of London.

The three couples will then embark on a carriage procession through the Windsor Estate towards the Castle.

The Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment will provide a Sovereign’s Escort, with the route lined by members of the armed forces with three military bands from the Royal Marines, the Army and the RAF from the Walled Garden to the castle’s George IV Gate.

As the procession departs the US and British national anthems will be played.

Trumps greeted by Prince and Princess of Wales

The US president emerged from his Marine One helicopter with his wife Melania at 12.16pm.

The arrival was celebrated with music from The Band of the Household Cavalry who were wearing state dress – a uniform designed in the 17th century and made from pure gold thread.

The Prince and Princess of Wales greeted the pair after arriving at the Walled Garden, in the Royal Kitchen Gardens at Frogmore on Windsor’s private Home Park estate.

Breaking:Donald Trump arrives at Windsor estate

US president Donald Trump has stepped on to the Windsor estate after touching down in his Marine One helicopter at 12.14pm, ready to begin his second state visit to the UK in full.

King watches on as Trump arrives late to Windsor

The King could be seen standing at the entrance to Victoria House, just inside the door with his hand resting on the frame, watching the first of three helicopters – a Chinook – arrive.

He continued to watch as the second helicopter prepared to land with the third, Marine One, carrying Mr Trump also seen in the distance.

Pictured: King and Queen about to welcome Trump at Windsor Castle

We’re just moments away from Donald Trump’s arrival at Windsor Castle where he will be formally welcomed to the UK by King Charles and Queen Camilla.

The timings were slightly behind schedule with Mr Trump yet to arrive at the planned time of 11.55am.

The King arrived with the Queen in the state Bentley at 12.02pm before heading inside Victoria House.

The Queen is wearing a vibrant sapphire blue dress, a matching coat by Fiona Clare and hat by Philip Treacy and a sapphire and diamond brooch.

President Trump departs Winfield House for Windsor

President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump boarded Marine One on Wednesday morning at 11:55 a.m. for their short flight to Windsor Castle.

Prince William and Princess Kate are expected to greet the Trumps after landing before they are transported via carriage to the castle where they will be officially welomed by King Charles and Queen Camilla.

‘Hopefully we get a peep of the big orange man’

Windsor residents have headed out to the castle hoping to catch a glimpse of Donald Trump as he arrives to be formally welcomed to the UK by King Charles.

Students Han Ali, 18, and Alana Burnett, 17, said they were still friends ‘just about’ despite claiming they have very different views on the president.

I don’t think he’s red carpet worth. I don’t like his view.

Alana, wearing a red Make American Great Again hat, said:

I like him, I think some of his views are quite good. Hopefully we get a peep of the big orange man.

Meanwhile Joseph Afrane, 61, an enthusiastic support of the Royal family and regular attendee of royal events, said he had travelled to Windsor from Battersea, London, because he wanted to support the ‘great’ President Trump.

I have come down to show my respect for the second historic state visit of President Trump, leader of the Western world. I came to first state visit and he waved at me outside Buckingham Palace.

Trump makes history with second state visit to UK as royals roll out full pageantry

President Donald Trump is making history with an unprecedented second state visit to the United Kingdom, this time hosted by King Charles III at Windsor Castle – a royal return steeped in politics and the president’s well-known love of pageantry.

‘Trump loves pomp and circumstance, and nobody does it better than the British,’ a Washington insider told the Daily Mail.

With Windsor Castle stepping in for Buckingham Palace — now under multi-year renovation — the Trumps will be embraced on Wednesday by the full royal welcome, from carriage procession to state dinner, in a show of dramatic splendor tailored to the president’s taste and highly susceptible ego.

Beyond the sensitive free-speech discussions with Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Trump is expected to announce major financial commitments worth ‘tens of billions’ of dollars, accompanied by a delegation of American tech and financial executives.

Hanging over it all will be the historic trade agreements that could fundamentally reshape post-Brexit commercial ties between the two nations and potential deals on defense and nuclear technology.

The president will be welcomed by Prince William and Princess Kate at Windsor Castle and then escorted to meet with the king and queen for a formal welcome, and a Royal salute.

Read the full story here:

Marco Rubio arrives in Windsor

US secretary of state Marco Rubio has arrived on the Windsor estate by car ready for President Donald Trump’s arrival.

He shook hands with staff and surveyed the scene on the estate before heading inside a property to wait for the royal welcome.

Two sniper positions could be seen on a roof in the distance with security at peak levels.

Queen Camilla to attend Trump’s ceremonial welcome

Queen Camilla will be attending Donald Trump’s formal welcome to the UK at Windsor Castle today.

The Queen was absent from the Duchess of Kent’s funeral in London yesterday after suffering from acute sinusitis.

However, it has bene confirmed she has recovered well with no plans to amend the schedule.

Watch live: Donald Trump to arrive at Windsor during historic state visit

You can now watch the Daily Mail’s live stream of Windsor Castle where Donald Trump will arrive to be welcomed by King Charles during his historic second state visit to the UK.

Pictures: Armed police patrol Windsor Castle

Armed police are patrolling Windsor Castle at the start of a major security operation as Donald Trump heads to Berkshire on the first day of his UK state visit.

Police are out in force on the streets today.

Trump visit will see one of UK’s largest drone operations

Police will conduct one of the largest drone operations in British history and the largest policing operation since the King’s coronation in 2023.

With 55 drones and 74 pilots at their disposal the police will act as an ‘eye in the sky’ during any unfolding incidents.

There will be a 1.5 mile exclusion zone around Windsor Castle and if a member of the public is flying a drone in that zone then they can be arrested. The drones will be able to search areas difficult to access in support of police officers and dogs on the ground.

Among the drones set to be deployed is a DJI M30T model, right, worth £5,000.

Equipped with a thermal day and night camera, infrared capability and a wide angle, high-definition lens that can read a car’s numberplate from 400m.

The drones can remain airborne for 30 minutes before they need to have the battery replaced.

‘Trump is a narcissist who will hijack the occasion’

Demonstrators opposing a state visit to Britain by US President Donald Trump have gathered in Windsor today to express their ‘absolute disgust’.

Kaya Mar, a professional artist from Spain who now lives in London, said he had made a dozen paintings of Trump – and felt that only a caveman depiction fit his nature.

The man is a narcissist. He will hijack the occasion, he will hijack the protocol, he won’t have any regard for his host.

The artist said the second state visit was a ‘bribe’ for a good trade deal with the USA, but the event made a ‘clown’ of King Charles.

The government wants to have a good trade relationship and how they get that is a bribe – and today is that bribe. That’s the desperation of the UK. Every country works in the national interest but there’s no need to make a clown of yourself. We shouldn’t trust him.

Trump state visit: How Donald and Melania will spend the afternoon in Windsor

On the first day of his second state visit to the UK, Donald Trump will feted at Windsor Castle where he will receive a formal welcome from the Royal Family led by King Charles.

When he arrives in Windsor, the Trumps will be at the centre of much pomp and pageantry in an elaborate ceremony.

Here’s what we can expect this afternoon

The Trumps are expected to arrive in Windsor by helicopter after spending the night at Winfield House, the home of US ambassador Warren Stephens.

They will be greeted on the royal estate by the Prince and Princess of Wales who will then escort them to meet King Charles and Queen Camilla

The couples will then embark on a carriage procession through the grounds to Windsor Castle

At the castle, the King and President will be greeted by a Guard of Honour consisting of the Grenadier Guards, Coldstream Guards and the Scots Guards

Following lunch, the Trumps will visit St George’s Chapel to lay a wreath on the tomb of Queen Elizabeth II who hosted Trump at Buckingham Palace on his first state visit in 2019

Later in the afternoon, the Trumps will join the King and Queen and Keir Starmer for a military flypast involving British and American fighter jets

Tonight, the Trumps will be guest of honours at a state banquet at the castle’s Great Hall where both the King and President will deliver speeches

REBECCA ENGLISH: Trump is clear admirer of King Charles and ‘good-looking’ William

by Rebecca English, Royal Editor at Windsor Castle

President Trump has made no secret of his admiration for King and the heir to the throne, having met them both several times previously.

He and the King have also exchanged letters, leading Trump to describe King Charles as a gracious and elegant man.

Similarly in December 2024, following a private sit down in Paris, the US leader described Prince William as a ‘good-looking guy’, ‘very handsome’ and said they had ‘great, great’ talks.

In advance of his arrival in London on Tuesday night the President also spoke of how much he was looking forward to the visit and of his admiration for the King.

He also couldn’t  help boasting about the extraordinary levels of pomp and pageantry being laid on for him by His Majesty, the British government and the military – and even appeared to claim that Windsor was being laid on for him as a venue for the first time ever.

There’s certainly one thing President Trump was right about – Windsor is special.

Boasting 1,000 years of history and walls studded with armour, military regalia, halbards and pikes, it’s an extraordinarily special location for a State Visit.

But no-one in the Royal Household was rushing to tell him that that President Macron of France had got there first less than eight weeks ago.

Historically, Queen Elizabeth also hosted several State Visits at the castle herself, although in recent years they have tended to be held at Buckingham Palace.

For the next couple of years the official royal residence in London is out of action for such large scale entertaining during the latter stages of major building works, however.

Coldstream Guard admits ‘nerves’ ahead of Trump welcome

Coldstream Guard members rehearse ahead of Trump’s visit

Lieutenant Colonel Storm Green, a South African officer of the Coldstream Guards in the British Army, has said there are ‘nerves’ before commanding the guard of honour at Windsor Castle.

Lt Col Green will give the guard of honour’s commands during the ceremonies before inviting US President Donald Trump to inspect the troops.

He told the PA news agency:

There are some nerves but that sort of apprehension makes you feel alive and like it’s an important event, which it is. It’s certainly the biggest state visit that I’ve taken part in, so there’s been a bit more rehearsal than normal, slightly different movements and dimensions I suppose than usual.

So lots of rehearsal, lots of shining of kits, lots of discussion, lots of co-ordination behind the scenes, which luckily isn’t my role today because that’s definitely the most difficult bit of it, so plenty of preparation.

Big events like this, even if you have a small role, you obviously want to do it well and show yourself off, show your organisation off and show your country off in best possible light, so I’m keen to get it right.

Pictures: Trump dividing opinion in Windsor

He hasn’t yet showed his face, but the forthcoming arrival of Donald Trump has already sparked contrasting emotions in Windsor.

Protesters and pro-Trump supporters have headed to Berkshire where the US President will be formally welcomed by King Charles on his state visit later today.

Police have already arrested four people after images of Trump, Prince Andrew and disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein were beamed onto Windsor Castle last night.

And today we’ve seen Trump fans and more people pointing our his own association with Epstein.

Watch: Windsor decked out in US flags ahead of Trump welcomeTrump’s ‘Beast’ limousine leaves ambassador’s home

It is being reported that Donald Trump’s black limousine, known as the ‘Beast’, has left Winfield House, the US ambassador’s home in London.

It is often seen in the president motorcade which consists of more than a dozen vehicles including police outriders.

Also known as Cadillac One, the £1.2 million presidential limo is understood to have been on board Air Force One when it touched down in the UK yesterday.

It is unknown if President Trump was inside the vehicle when it was seen leaving Regent’s Park this morning. Trump and Melania are expected to arrive at Windsor Castle via helicopter.

See our graphic of the Beast below:

Sadiq Khan branded ’embarrassing’ over Trump criticism

Broadcaster Piers Morgan has branded Sir Sadiq Khan as ‘tedious’ and ’embarrassing’ over his criticism of Donald Trump.

Morgan, who has previously described himself as a friend of the US President, made the remarks after Khan said Trump had ‘fanned the flames of the far-right’.

It comes ahead of a major protest in the capital against Trump’s state visit with more than 1,600 police officers deployed across London.

Farage confirms he won’t see Trump during UK visit

Nigel Farage has confirmed he will not meet Donald Trump during his UK state visit.

Asked by TalkTV whether he would see Trump in the next 48 hours, the Reform leader said: ‘No, sadly not’.

It comes after Farage was pictured in the Oval Office with Trump earlier this month after speaking at a congressional hearing in Washington.

I saw him a couple of weeks ago when I was in DC but I’ve not been invited to the dinner tonight. They thought it was more suitable to ask Ed Davey. Don’t ask me why, he’s boycotted it.

So no, I won’t be seeing him. But I did last night speak to Marco Rubio and I did last night speak to Scott Bessent, the Treasury Secretary. I mean, these guys have got big plans. We’re going to hear about big investments in Britain for Microsoft.

We’re gonna hear about nuclear deals, all of which is good, but it does make me wonder – why are we, ourselves, not pushing our own nuclear industry?

Pictures: Windsor prepares to host Trumps

Here are the latest pictures from Windsor ahead of Donald Trump’s arrival in the town later this morning.

Protesters and pro-Trump supporters have been visiting the Berkshire town in the hours leading up to the President’s arrival.

A gigantic royal standard, which is used for royal celebration days, was flying from the Royal Tower of Windsor Castle on Wednesday morning.

Here are the latest pictures we can show you:

Campaigners take aim at Trump after Epstein stunt at Windsor Castle

Led By Donkeys, the political campaign group, has appeared to take credit for a stunt which saw the face of paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein projected onto Windsor Castle.

In a post on Instagram, the group posted a picture of Epstein and Mr Trump with the caption: ‘Hey Donald, welcome to Windsor Castle.’

Yesterday evening, a video of several photos and clips of the disgraced financier and 79-year-old Mr Trump together over the years were displayed onto the brick walls.

The series of images was accompanied by a timeline, showing several pictures of the two as well as a note written by the President to Epstein in a copy of his book ‘Trump the Art of The Comeback’ which read: ‘To Jeff, you are the greatest.’

Images of Prince Andrew alongside Epstein, who was awaiting trial for sex trafficking charges when he died in jail in 2019, were also shone on the screen for passers by in the Berkshire town to see.

Thames Valley Police confirmed four adults were arrested on suspicion of malicious communication.

Keir Starmer was forced to abandon part of his ‘historic’ trade deal with the US on the eve of Donald Trump’s State visit.

Whitehall sources said months of lobbying had failed to persuade the White House to implement an agreement to slash tariffs on British steel exports to zero, despite one being announced.

The blow came as Mr Trump flew into the UK last night for his second State visit, after being hosted in 2019 at Buckingham Palace by Queen Elizabeth.

The US President said his trip would be focused on spending time with his ‘friend’ King Charles at Windsor Castle, whom he called an ‘elegant gentleman’.

But he was also willing to talk to Sir Keir about making the trade deal ‘a little bit better’.

Despite the warm words, the sources said it was now clear that the original plan for zero tariffs on UK steel would not be implemented, delivering a devastating new blow to the beleaguered industry.

The so-called deal, covering cars and steel, was announced by the Prime Minister in May.

London Mayor reignites Trump feud ahead of state visit

London Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan has reignited his feud reignited his feud with Donald Trump just hours ahead of his arrival into Britain yesterday, claiming ecord numbers of Americans are moving to the UK’s capital to escape him.

The city mayor, who has clashed repeatedly with the president during his nine years in office, said a record number of people were crossing the Atlantic to make lives in the UK since the start of his second term.

Sir Sadiq hit out just hours before Trump and first lady Melania touched down for his second State Visit to the UK.

In a pointed statement Sir Sadiq said:

Prominent figures in the US and UK deliberately talk down our country, and in particular our capital city. Yet the latest evidence is clear – a record number of US citizens are now applying for citizenship here in the UK.

For many Americans I speak with, it’s because of our values that record numbers are applying to be citizens. This includes our fundamental values like adhering to the rule of law, being proud of our diversity and championing the rights of minority communities.

City Hall cited Home Office figures showing a rise in applications for UK citizenship from Americans since the last quarter of last year, which coincides with Trump’s election win over Kamala Harris.

In July, Trump referred to Sir Sadiq as a ‘nasty person’ who had done a ‘terrible job’ while visiting his golf resort in Scotland.

Graphic: The ceremonial welcome awaiting Donald Trump at Windsor Castle

Here’s what Donald Trump can expect at his ceremonial welcome today at Windsor Castle as he greets the Prince and Princess of Wales as well as King Charles on the first full day of his second state visit.

Here’s our graphic below:

Cabinet minister – Protests against Trump ‘inevitable’

Protests against Donald Trump’s state visit are ‘perhaps inevitable’ but the US President and Sir Keir Starmer “won’t let any of that distract them”, a Cabinet minister has said.

Technology Secretary Liz Kendall said she had not seen reports that four people had been arrested after an image of Mr Trump and deceased paedophile Jeffrey Epstein was beamed onto Windsor Castle.

In today’s world, many of these things are perhaps inevitable, but they won’t let any of that distract them. They both want to deliver for their countries and their people.

What Trump said about King Charles before heading to UK

Before leaving the US, Donald Trump spoke of his excitement to see King Charles, whom he described as ‘an elegant gentleman’.

After arriving at Winfield House, the residence of America’s ambassador to the UK, Warren Stevens, Trump praised the ‘outstanding’ job the monarch is doing.

Asked if he had a message for King Charles, he added:

We’re going to see him tomorrow and he’s been a friend of mine for a long time, and everybody respects him, and they love him.

Trump earlier spoke about his relationship with Charles ahead of boarding Air Force One at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland.

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.

Trump visit comes as Mandelson crisis engulfs UK government

Trump and Mandelson in the Oval Office in May

Donald Trump’s second state visit threatens to be overshadowed by a crisis engulfing Keir Starmer’s government.

Peter Mandelson was last week sacked as US ambassador after a series of devastating emails suggested the Labour grandee appeared to have plotted with his paedophile ‘best pal’ Epstein to save him from looming charges of molesting teenagers.

Starmer had appointed Mandelson as US ambassador without waiting for him to be vetted by the security services, MPs were told on Monday.

The President’s allies vowed he would ‘go easy’ on struggling Sir Keir during his visit following the domestic hits to the Prime Minister’s leadership.

Picture: Last time Trumps attended state banquet

During Donald Trump’s first UK state visit in 2019, the President was hosted by the late Queen Eizabeth II at Buckingham Palace.

Tonight, the Trumps will be guests of honour at Windsor Castle as Buckingham Palace undergoes extensive refurbishment.

by Andrew Pierce, Daily Mail Consultant Editor and Columnist

It’s unprecedented for a president of the United States to get two state visits to the United Kingdom. But what will come out of Trump’s second UK visit?

Donald Trump and First Lady Melania are due to touch down tonight. They will stay in Windsor Castle where they will be hosted by the King and treated to a ceremonial welcome and a lavish state banquet.

Click above to watch the video.

All eyes on Windsor ahead of Trump’s ceremonial welcome

Donald Trump and Melania are expected to arrive at Windsor Castle this morning by helicopter for a ceremonial welcome full of pomp and paegantry.

The scale and spectacle of the military ceremonial on show for Mr Trump is unprecedented and marks the largest military ceremonial welcome for a state visit to the UK in living memory.

Here’s the scene this morning with police already standing guard in the town.

Trump to spend day with royals

Trump and King Charles pictured in 2019

Donald Trump will spend today rubbing shoulders with the Royal Family in the grounds of Windsor Castle.

Trump, who is known for his admiration of the royals, will first meet the Prince and Princess of Wales who will then escort him and Melania a short distance to see the King and Queen for an open air greeting nearby.

The proceedings are aimed at extending a personal, family-centred welcome to the Trumps ahead of the official ceremony in the castle quadrangle after a carriage ride through private Home Park.

The Queen – who spent Tuesday afternoon resting at Windsor Castle, having pulled out of attending the Duchess of Kent’s funeral on Tuesday after suffering from acute sinusitis – is said to be hopeful she will recover in time to attend the busy run of royal events including the glittering banquet.

Protesters target Windsor Castle ahead of street demonstration in London

Last night protesters at Windsor were chanting ‘Dump Trump’ even before the US president had landed.

One demonstrator, a marketing executive who declined to give her surname, said she opposed Britain rolling out the red carpet for Trump, whom she said had fuelled ‘ a lot of the far-right protests that we’re already having here’.

More protests are expected today with thousands set to descend on central London, with other demonstrations gearing up around the UK in opposition to the US President’s two-day stay.

About 1,600 police officers will be in the capital, around Westminster, amid a march involving 50 groups organised by the Stop Trump Coalition.

Road closures will allow protesters to march on Parliament Square from around 2pm.

First pictures of Donald Trump after landing in UK

Here are the first pictures of Donald Trump and wife Melania as they landed in the UK to start an unprecedented second UK state visit.

The President and First Lady came to Britain in 2019 during Trump’s first term in the White House and return following an invitation from King Charles earlier this year.

Watch: Trumps land in UK as state visit gets underway

Watch footage of the moment Donald Trump and Melania arrived in the UK last night.

When the president landed at Stansted Airport on Air Force One, he held his 55-year-old wife First Lady Melania’s hand as he walked down the aircraft steps.

Melania sported a trench coat from British designer Burberry and black riding boots as she and her husband were greeted by the Viscount Hood, Lord-in-Waiting, on behalf of King Charles.

Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper, who opposed his first state visit, shook Trump’s hand for about five seconds.

Four arrested after Epstein, Trump and Prince Andrew images projected onto Windsor Castle

Four people were arrested last night after images of Jeffrey Epstein, Prince Andrew and Donald Trump were projected on to Windsor Castle.

A video of several photos and clips of the disgraced financier and the US President, 79, together over the years were displayed onto the brick walls.

The series of images were accompanied by a timeline, showing several pictures of the two as well as a note written by Mr Trump to Epstein in a copy of his book ‘Trump the Art of The Comeback’ which read: ‘To Jeff, you are the greatest.’

Images of Prince Andrew alongside Epstein, who was on trial for several sex trafficking charges, were also shone on the screen for passers by in the Berkshire town to see.

In 2019, the financier died while on trial, accused of running a ‘vast network’ of trafficking underage girls. He was also convicted of soliciting prostitution from a minor a decade prior, for which he was a registered sex offender.

Watch: Trump hails UK ‘very special place’ after landing last night

Donald Trump hailed the UK a ‘very special place’ ahead of the first full day of his historic second state visit.

Mr Trump landed at London Stansted airport on Air Force One last night before taking the Marine One helicopter to Winfield House in Regent’s Park, central London, where spent the night.

The US president told reporters on Tuesday evening he ‘loves’ the UK.

‘I have a lot of things here that warm my heart,’ he said. ‘I want to tell you. It’s a very special place.’

The American leader is being feted with a stay in Windsor Castle, where he will be hosted by the King and treated to a ceremonial welcome on Wednesday and later, a lavish state banquet.

Security will be paramount, with Mr Trump confined to the private Windsor estate on the first full day, before heading to the Prime Minister’s country residence Chequers on Thursday.

Donald Trump to spend day in Windsor on first full day of UK state visit

Hello and welcome to the Daily Mail’s live coverage as Donald Trump embarks on the first full day of his unprecedented second state visit to the UK.

President Trump landed at London Stansted airport on Air Force One last night before he was whisked off to the American ambassador’s residence in Regent’s Park to spend the night.

Speaking to reporters after his arrival, Trump hailed the UK as a ‘very special place’.

Trump is being feted with a stay in Windsor Castle, where he will be hosted by the King and treated to a ceremonial welcome on Wednesday and later, a lavish state banquet.

Security will be paramount, with Mr Trump confined to the private Windsor estate on the first full day, before heading to the Prime Minister’s country residence Chequers on Thursday.

Stick with us throughout the day as we bring you the latest developments on Trump’s visit

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Trump and Melania wow at state banquet as King Charles and Queen Camilla roll out the red carpet: Recap