Donald Trump may make history as the first U.S. President to receive two state visit invitations to the UK, underlining the deep ties between the two nations.
At a Glance
- Trump could become the first politician in modern history to receive two UK state visits
- The potential visit is part of Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s strategy to build strong international relationships
- A second state visit is unlikely before 2026 due to King Charles III’s commitments
- The British government and Buckingham Palace are preparing an invitation for Trump’s potential return to the White House
- Trump’s admiration for the royal family is attributed to his Scottish mother
A Historic Second Invitation
In an unprecedented move, the British government, with support from Buckingham Palace, is preparing to extend a second state visit invitation to former President Donald Trump. This potential honor would make Trump the first elected leader since 1954 to receive two such invitations, a distinction previously reserved only for monarchs.
The significance of this potential second visit cannot be overstated. State visits represent the highest form of diplomatic recognition and are carefully orchestrated to strengthen international ties.
A government source explained the rationale behind this decision, stating, “The fact there has been a change of both sovereign and government in that break [from power] means a second state visit is entirely appropriate.”
Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s administration views this potential visit as a crucial element in their strategy to build strong personal relationships between leaders, even though Starmer and his cabinet have long accused Trump of being a “fascist.”.
Starmer faces the monumental task of establishing relations with Trump, who previously supported Brexit and former Prime Minister Boris Johnson.
Despite these potential hurdles, efforts are underway to improve relations. A private dinner between Starmer, Foreign Secretary David Lammy, and Trump has been presented as evidence of warming ties. And Lammy has been one of the most vocally anti-Trump members of the British government. British officials are also working to arrange a meeting between Starmer and Trump soon after his potential return to the White House.
Trump’s relationship with the British royal family has been a subject of interest. His recent meeting with Prince William during the reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris was well-received and seen as a diplomatic success. Trump’s admiration for the royal family, attributed to his Scottish mother, has also been evident throughout his interactions with them.
During Trump’s previous state visit in 2019, he dined with Queen Elizabeth II and attended a D-Day commemoration. The late Queen expressed hope for Trump’s return, to which he responded positively.
Reflecting on the late monarch, Trump stated, “Great woman. Great, great woman.”
This is great news for Trump, and for America.
