It’s official: Donald Trump is returning to the United Kingdom for his second state visit, and this time, it’s more than just pomp and protocol—it’s history in the making.
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After months of back-and-forth, shifting schedules, and whispers of informal meetings, Buckingham Palace has now confirmed that the POTUS will receive a full state welcome in September this year. From a hand-delivered royal letter to speculation about Windsor Castle as the chosen setting, this visit is already shaping up to be one for the history books. And while some eyebrows were raised over the change in plans, the palace has made its position crystal clear.
Donald Trump and Melania to visit the UK in September 2025
Donald Trump will visit the UK later this year for a full state visit, according to official statements from Buckingham Palace. He will be accompanied by his wife, Melania Trump. The trip marks an extraordinary second state visit for the former president, who was last hosted by the late Queen Elizabeth II in 2019.
This time, the King himself extended the formal invitation, known as a ‘manu regia,’ which was hand-delivered to the White House by British embassy officials last week. As reported by People, a palace aide noted:
His Majesty has known President Trump for many years and looks forward to hosting him and the First Lady later this year.
The visit is now expected to take place in September, aligning with both leaders’ busy schedules. Earlier in the year, British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer had personally delivered a preliminary invitation to Trump at the White House, suggesting a casual summer meeting in Scotland. However, due to scheduling issues, this informal encounter never materialised.
Despite tradition, Trump’s return is a notable exception. As BBC highlighted, it’s uncommon for a second-term US president to receive another state visit. These typically take the form of a private tea or lunch. Nevertheless, Trump himself acknowledged the uniqueness of the moment, saying in April:
They're going to do a second, as you know, a second fest… that's what it is: a fest, and it's beautiful, and it's the first time it's ever happened to one person.
And the reason is we have two separate terms, and it's an honour… I'm a friend of Charles. I have great respect for King Charles and the family, William, we have really just a great respect for the family.
How is Trump getting a second state visit to the UK?
Originally, there were plans for a more relaxed gathering between the monarch and the former president in one of the King's Scottish residences — possibly Dumfries House or Balmoral.
This would have coincided with Trump’s expected summer trip to Aberdeenshire for the opening of his new golf course. But these plans were quietly dropped.
According to BBC, both parties’ packed timetables made the informal visit impractical. Moreover, The Times revealed that behind-the-scenes tension may have played a part. The palace reportedly had reservations over Trump’s comments concerning Canada, with a senior source suggesting the King was reluctant to host Trump while he was 'impugning his sovereignty' over the Commonwealth nation.
Despite this, the visit was brought forward. The Prime Minister's office swiftly dismissed speculation that Starmer had overridden the King’s preferences. A spokesperson stated:
That is untrue.
Regardless of the initial reservations, the Palace has made clear its readiness. The event is expected to be centred at Windsor Castle. Prince William and Kate Middleton are also likely to participate, joining King Charles and Queen Camilla at a state banquet.
As People reported, the King had initially considered an informal encounter to ‘plan a historic second State Visit.’ While the planning may not have gone as originally expected, the end result is certainly historic.
Read more:
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Sources used:
People: Buckingham Palace Announces Surprise Change to Donald Trump’s State Visit Later This Year
BBC: Donald Trump to Make Second UK State Visit After Plans for Summer Meeting Fall Through
