US President, Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump received a grand royal welcome at Windsor Castle on Wednesday as they began a historic second state visit to the United Kingdom.
The couple arrived via Marine One and were greeted by Prince William and Princess Catherine before meeting King Charles III and Queen Camilla.
6 The ceremonial reception included the Mounted Band of the Household Cavalry performing “The Star-Spangled Banner,” a horse-drawn carriage procession, and a 41-gun royal salute fired from Tower Wharf by Tower Bridge.
More than 1,300 military personnel and 120 horses took part in the elaborate display, marking one of the largest ceremonial operations since King Charles’ coronation.
The U.S. and UK also staged a joint military flypast featuring F-35 aircraft, underscoring defense ties between the two nations
Following the formalities, the Trumps joined King Charles and Queen Camilla for lunch in the State Dining Room. Later in the evening, a lavish state banquet is set to host over 150 guests, including royals, politicians, and key figures from both countries.
During the procession, Queen Camilla accompanied Melania Trump in the Scottish State Coach, while King Charles rode alongside President Trump in the Irish State Coach.
Security around Windsor has been intensified, with Thames Valley Police overseeing the UK’s largest security operation since 2023. The Trumps are staying at Windsor Castle, as Buckingham Palace remains under renovation until 2027.
The visit will also include a solemn tribute to the late Queen Elizabeth II, with President Trump expected to lay a wreath at her tomb in St George’s Chapel. On Thursday, the Trumps are scheduled to meet UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, though Parliament is currently in recess, meaning no official address will take place.
This marks Trump’s second state visit to Britain, following his first in June 2019
