Thousands of demonstrators filled the streets of London on Wednesday as U.S. President Donald Trump embarked on his second state visit to the United Kingdom. The visit, marked by royal pageantry at Windsor Castle, coincided with a large-scale protest organized by the Stop Trump Coalition and supported by Amnesty International, pro-Palestinian groups, and women’s rights advocates.
A Divided Reception
While Trump was treated to a carriage procession and a grand military parade at Windsor, more than 5,000 protesters marched through central London carrying placards reading “Dump Trump” and “Not Wanted Anywhere.” The protest culminated in Parliament Square, where speakers condemned Trump’s policies on immigration, climate change, and women’s rights.
Despite Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s diplomatic engagement with Trump, public opinion remains split. A recent YouGov poll revealed that 45% of Britons opposed the visit, while only 30% approved.
Heavy Police Presence
More than 1,600 police officers were deployed to manage the protest, which remained largely peaceful despite high tensions. Four arrests were made earlier in the week when images of Trump and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein were projected onto Windsor Castle, drawing further controversy.
Voices from the Crowd
Retiree Bryan Murray, attending with his wife, described Trump as “a big step back on the evolution of man.” Others echoed similar concerns, calling the protest a stand against hate and authoritarianism.
Supporters at Windsor
Meanwhile, a smaller group of Trump supporters gathered outside Windsor Castle, waving American flags and praising the president. One U.S. visitor described Trump as “a beaming light” and hailed his economic record.
A Visit with Global Implications
This state visit comes at a pivotal moment for UK-U.S. relations, with trade negotiations and security cooperation high on the agenda. Analysts say the protests reflect deeper divisions over Britain’s post-Brexit global role and its partnership with Washington.
For now, London remains the stage for two parallel narratives: a president celebrated by the establishment yet fiercely opposed by thousands on the streets.
