LONDON (AP) Preparations are underway at Windsor Castle, where staff are meticulously setting a 50-meter-long mahogany table for an extravagant state visit by U.S. President Donald Trump. With royal grooms polishing horses and military guards rehearsing to ensure precision, the castle, steeped in nearly 1,000 years of history, is brimming with activity. This marks Trump’s historic second state visit to the United Kingdom, highlighting the importance of maintaining strong ties with America amidst political and economic uncertainties stemming from his “America First” policies.
The state visit promises a spectacle filled with grandeur, featuring glittering tiaras, brass bands, and a sumptuous banquet presented on 200-year-old silver. Amidst the pomp, the visit serves a strategic purpose: to strengthen relations with the U.S. The royal historian Robert Lacey noted that Trump’s choice to stay at Windsor Castle reflects his admiration for the late Queen and the British monarchy.
The British monarchy, having evolved into a ceremonial role centuries ago, continues to wield significant “soft power.” This power allows the British government to reward allies and negotiate favorable terms with reluctant partners. The monarchy's state visits are particularly important, seen as prestigious events that world leaders aspire to be part of. The late Queen Elizabeth II hosted numerous leaders during her reign, showcasing the monarchy’s longstanding role in international diplomacy.
The effectiveness of soft power is challenging to quantify, yet it fosters a sense of mutual goodwill that may encourage cooperation on critical issues. Six years prior, the U.K. sought Trump’s backing during its Brexit efforts; this time, the focus is on negotiating beneficial trade agreements and seeking assistance against Russian aggression in Ukraine. Martin Farr, a historian at Newcastle University, emphasized that flattering an influential leader like Trump, who has a personal connection to Scotland, is a strategic move.
In a calculated gesture, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer visited Washington shortly after Trump assumed his second presidency, personally delivering the king’s invitation for a state visit, an honor Trump celebrated publicly. This visit represents a significant diplomatic achievement, being the first time a world leader received a second state visit invitation, underscored by royal traditions.
The state visit will feature an elaborate itinerary, beginning with the arrival of Trump and First Lady Melania Trump. Following their arrival, King Charles III and Queen Camilla will greet them and partake in a carriage ride through the grounds of Windsor Castle, escorted by military personnel. Inside the ancient castle walls, military bands will perform anthems as Charles and Trump review a guard of honor composed of scarlet-clad soldiers wearing traditional bearskin hats.
The ceremonies will involve hundreds of military members, trained in precision for months, ensuring that every movement aligns with royal traditions. The visit will also include an exhibit that reflects the historical ties between Britain and the United States. The shared legal and democratic heritage, dating back to the signing of the Magna Carta in 1215, will be highlighted.
The highlight of the visit will be the state banquet, where the ambiance will be steeped in elegance. With attendees adorned in white tie attire and exquisite gowns sparkling under antique candelabra light, the evening promises to be grand. The dinner will take place at the massive Waterloo Table, which accommodates up to 160 guests and requires extensive preparation to arrange, employing a silver-gilt dining service consisting of over 4,000 pieces.
Royal historian Hugo Vickers remarked that the ceremonial silver and detailed protocols serve to foster diplomacy and goodwill. Starmer’s strategic use of the king to engage Trump aims to create a conducive environment for discussing pressing global issues, including the crisis in Ukraine. This dialogue is set to continue the following day when Trump meets with Starmer at Chequers, the prime minister's country residence.
