September 22, 2025
US President Donald Trump attended a state banquet at Windsor with the British royals, while thousands of protesters gathered across London to voice opposition to his visit.
On September 17, 2025, US President Donald Trump attended a state banquet at Windsor Castle, hosted by King Charles III and the British royal family. The visit marked one of the most high-profile diplomatic events in recent years, drawing attention from global media and triggering large-scale protests across the UK.
The state banquet was attended by senior members of the royal family, UK government officials, and diplomatic representatives from multiple countries. The formal dinner featured a program highlighting the historical ties between the United States and the United Kingdom, with speeches emphasizing transatlantic partnership, trade, and security cooperation.
Despite the official grandeur, the visit faced significant public opposition. Thousands of demonstrators gathered in central London and outside Windsor, waving banners and chanting slogans against Trump’s policies and past actions. The protests reflected concerns over human rights, environmental policy, and ongoing political controversies linked to the former US president.
The UK government deployed extensive security measures to ensure the safety of the President, the royal family, and attendees at both the banquet and protest sites. Police and security services coordinated across London and Windsor to manage large crowds and prevent potential disruptions.
Analysts noted that state visits are not merely ceremonial; they provide opportunities for high-level bilateral discussions on issues such as trade agreements, investment opportunities, and shared global challenges. During the visit, Trump reportedly met with UK officials to discuss trade, energy, and international security matters, reinforcing economic and strategic ties.
The protests, meanwhile, highlighted the growing role of public activism in shaping diplomatic events. Activists called attention to climate change, social justice, and democratic accountability, using the visit as a platform to bring global issues to the forefront. Despite the criticism, the royal family maintained a neutral and dignified stance, hosting the banquet in accordance with established diplomatic protocol.
Observers also noted that state visits can have economic implications. The presence of high-profile international leaders often boosts tourism, media coverage, and related sectors such as hospitality and transport. Windsor, in particular, experienced an influx of visitors and heightened international attention, both positive and negative.
The visit sparked discussions about the nature of modern diplomacy, public opinion, and the balance between ceremonial tradition and political controversy. While some praised the event as a reaffirmation of US-UK relations, others argued that it underscored divisions in public sentiment toward foreign leaders.
Overall, Trump’s attendance at the Windsor state banquet was a symbolic moment in US-UK relations, combining ceremonial diplomacy with ongoing political debates. The juxtaposition of royal protocol and widespread protest demonstrated the complexities of hosting controversial leaders in the modern era, balancing international relations with domestic public opinion.
