President Donald Trump arrived in Scotland on Friday, combining diplomacy with business as his family prepares to open a new golf course on 13 August in Balmedie, Aberdeenshire.
Trump–Starmer Meeting and UK Trade Deal
Trump said his meeting with Starmer would be more of a celebration of the trade deal already reached than continued work on it, adding, "It's a great deal for both."
Since taking office last year, Starmer has prioritized strengthening ties with Washington and succeeded in clinching the first tariff-reduction deal with the U.S. in May, easing levies on aerospace goods and setting car export quotas.
EU Trade Talks and Tariff Proposals
Trump also commented on ongoing negotiations with the European Union, estimating a '50-50' chance of securing a major trade deal. He acknowledged there are still 'sticking points' on about 20 unresolved issues.
EU diplomats suggest the deal under discussion may introduce a broad 15% tariff on European goods—half the 30% Trump has threatened to impose by 1 August. As part of his broader effort to reset global trade terms, Trump has already introduced a 10% tariff on nearly all U.S. trade partners, a move aimed at reducing the trade deficit, though economists warn it could drive inflation.
Epstein Scandal and Public Reaction
Trump addressed the renewed media attention regarding his past association with Jeffrey Epstein, characterizing the coverage as disproportionate.
"You make it a very big thing over something that's not a big thing," Trump told reporters in Scotland, urging them to focus on other prominent Americans with ties to Epstein, including former President Bill Clinton.
Scotland Visit and Public Sentiment
During his stay in Scotland, Trump is lodging at his Turnberry golf resort on the west coast. On Monday, he will travel to Aberdeen to open a second 18-hole course named after his Scottish-born mother, Mary Anne MacLeod, who was raised on the Isle of Lewis before immigrating to the U.S.
While Trump describes Scotland as a 'very special place,' local sentiment is less favorable. A recent Ipsos poll found that 70% of Scots hold a negative view of him. Protests are expected in both Aberdeen and Edinburgh over the weekend.
Upcoming State Visit
Looking ahead, Trump is scheduled to return to the UK in September for a formal state visit hosted by King Charles. It will make Trump the first world leader in modern times to undertake two state visits to Britain.
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