Royal Reception: Trumps' Historic UK Visit Features Princess of Wales & Queen’s Tomb
SHOCKING STATE VISIT: Trumps Set to Rub Shoulders with Royal Family Amid Scandal
In a stunning turn of events, the Princess of Wales and the First Lady of the United States are set to join forces at Windsor Castle next week, amidst a whirlwind state visit that has left many scratching their heads. The unlikely duo will meet with a Scout troop as part of Donald Trump's highly anticipated trip to the UK, which promises to be one for the books.
Kate Middleton, 43, will team up with Melania Trump, 55, at Frogmore Gardens in the Home Park at Windsor Castle to meet chief scout Dwayne Fields and members of the Scouts' Squirrels programme on Thursday. The Princess, who has been Joint President of the Scouts since 2020, and Mrs Trump will get a taste of the Squirrels' Go Wild nature badge, awarded to curious youngsters who care deeply about the natural world.
But that's not all - this state visit is shaping up to be one of the most unconventional in recent history. With scandals surrounding Lord Mandelson's links with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein threatening to overshadow proceedings, it's clear that nothing can prepare us for what's in store.
The usually buttoned-up US Ambassador, Lord Mandelson, was sensationally asked to step down yesterday due to his questionable associations. James Roscoe, the deputy head of mission at the British embassy in Washington, has been hastily appointed interim ambassador, as if to mitigate the damage.
As Trump and Melania touch down on Tuesday, they'll be greeted by a veritable who's who of UK royalty - but it remains to be seen just whom exactly will be waiting for them. The Palace has confirmed that there won't be any public-facing events on Tuesday, sparking whispers about what might be going on behind closed doors.
On Wednesday, however, the Trumps will lay a wreath in Queen Elizabeth II's tomb, in a poignant tribute to the late monarch. This follows hot on the heels of a visit by the Princess and Prince William to meet with Mr and Mrs Trump before being formally welcomed by the King and Queen themselves.
The atmosphere promises to be electric as the Royal Marines, Army, and RAF bands take center stage for a stunning musical performance, complete with a royal salute from the east lawn of Windsor Castle. And if that weren't enough, we can expect a dazzling carriage procession through the Windsor estate, lined with members of the Armed Forces.
While some have questioned the unconventional nature of this state visit, it's undeniable that the Palace is pulling out all stops to make Trump feel welcome. The usually formal State Dining Room will be transformed into an informal gathering space, complete with a display of American memorabilia from the Royal Collection in the Green Drawing Room.
But just what kind of conversation starters might arise at Thursday's grand state banquet remains to be seen. With speeches promised by both Trump and the King, there's no telling what fireworks might erupt - or whether the usually composed Kate Middleton will get dragged into the fray.
Meanwhile, Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey has announced his intention to boycott the banquet in protest over the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza. It remains to be seen who else might join him in boycotting this historic event.
Thursday September 18 promises to bring even more drama as Trump meets Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer at Chequers, where he'll enjoy a personal viewing of the Sir Winston Churchill archives and a bilateral meeting with the PM. Meanwhile, Melania will remain at Windsor, indulging in a private viewing of Queen Mary's Dolls House and the Royal Library before joining Kate for their Scout troop meet-and-greet.
And as the Trumps prepare to bid adieu to the UK, one thing is certain: this state visit has all the makings of an unforgettable spectacle.
