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US President Donald Trump spent his first entire day in Scotland golfing under close protection at his Turnberry resort, as protests broke out in cities nationwide against his visit and policies.
Trump, who was flanked by his son Eric and US ambassador to the UK Warren Stephens, waved to press photographers as he set out onto the course on Saturday. His Friday evening arrival has turned the normally peaceful coastal village into a high-security area, with roads cordoned off and police checkpoints in place.
Turnberry security was visibly increased. Officers walked around the grounds as well as on quad bikes, sniffer dogs searched the grounds, and Secret Service snipers watched from elevated positions. Even golfers other than those accompanying the President were subject to security screenings.
Trump arrived at Prestwick Airport to a divided welcome from spectators. While he personally loves Scotland — his mother was Scottish — his divisive political stance and off-putting business interests have soured his relations with some of the local population.
Speaking briefly to the press upon arrival, Trump immediately targeted immigration and renewable energy policies. “Migration is killing Europe,” he said, adding, “Stop the windmills. You’re ruining your countries.”
His remarks added fuel to demonstrations across Scotland. In Edinburgh and Aberdeen, hundreds rallied under the banner of the “Stop Trump Coalition,” waving Palestinian flags and holding signs such as “Scotland Hates Trump.”
“I’m protesting the fascism in America under Trump and the genocide in Gaza that the West is complicit in,” said Amy Hanlon, 44, from Aberdeen.
However, not all sentiments were hostile. Supporters greeted Trump at Prestwick with signs like “Welcome Trump” and MAGA flags. “He’s not a typical politician, and he puts his country first,” said Lee McLean, 46, who came from Kilmarnock.
Despite having no formal events on Saturday, Trump tweeted about meeting with the presidents of Cambodia and Thailand in an effort to broker their border war, which has left at least 33 people dead.
He is scheduled to meet with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Sunday to talk about trade. Trump will visit his Balmedie golf club in Aberdeenshire during the week to open a new course.
Prior to going back to the US on Tuesday, Trump is also set to meet with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. He will go back to the UK in September for a state visit by King Charles.
