Protests begin in England as Trump visits.
The plane carrying the US president will arrive in the UK in a few hours. This is the second time that Trump has arrived in the country for a state visit. According to the announced schedule, he will first go to Windsor Castle and meet with King Charles III of England. British media reported that the royal flag was raised above the palace, indicating that the monarch is present at the residence and is ready to welcome the US president.
Simultaneously with the ceremonial preparations, members of the group called Stop Trump Coalition have gathered in front of Windsor. Protesters showed their opposition to the US president’s presence in the UK by holding placards that read “We do not welcome Trump” and “Trump is a criminal, racist, liar, and loser” and chanting slogans against his policies.
Meanwhile, British police are preparing for one of the largest security operations in recent years. Scotland Yard said more than 1,600 police officers would be deployed to provide security in central London, with 500 of them being deployed to the capital from other local police forces. The police have imposed restrictions under the Public Order Act to prevent widespread disruption and have said the main gathering must end by 7pm.
Around 50 protest groups are expected to gather in central London on Wednesday, police said. Protesters will gather outside the BBC from 2 pm and then march to Parliament Square. The Stop Trump Coalition, which is leading the movement, is made up of a diverse group including trade unions, student organisations, and community campaigns.
The coalition has described Trump in a statement as “a racist authoritarian politician at home and a warmonger abroad,” and stressed that his visit to the UK comes as the Starmer government is “rolling out the red carpet” for nuclear and technology deals that will only benefit the wealthy and do nothing for the everyday lives of the people.
The planned protests are not limited to the streets of London. Many students have promised to walk out of classes on Wednesday and hold a student strike to show their opposition to Trump and the policies of the Starmer government. The London rally will also feature prominent figures such as former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn and new Green Party leader Zac Polanski, along with social and civic activists.