Donald Trump set for Scotland visit next week

U.S. President Donald Trump will travel to Scotland next week, with stops planned at his two golf resorts in Turnberry and Aberdeenshire, the White House confirmed Thursday.

The visit, scheduled from July 25 to 29, will include meetings with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Scottish First Minister John Swinney.

Trump’s itinerary marks his return to properties that have been central to his business ventures in the UK.

The trip follows Police Scotland’s earlier acknowledgment of preliminary security preparations for a potential presidential visit.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that discussions with Starmer would focus on strengthening U.S.-UK trade relations, building on previous agreements.

Swinney defended his decision to engage with Trump, emphasizing his duty to advocate for Scotland’s interests. He said he had an “obligation” to “protect and promote” Scotland, noting planned discussions on international conflicts, trade policies, and tariffs affecting key industries like Scotch whisky.

Trump, who has previously praised Aberdeen as Europe’s “oil capital,” reiterated his skepticism of renewable energy during recent remarks, calling wind turbines detrimental to Scotland’s landscape.

Swinney countered by reaffirming Scotland’s commitment to sustainable energy.

He said he supported renewables in Scotland, which he said was key to the future of the country.

He said: “There’s going to be different views expressed by different political leaders, and I’m a supporter of renewable energy.

“I think it’s important that we use the opportunities that we have in Scotland to capture the natural and sustainable energy that surrounds us and it’s all around us, and we should take those opportunities, which the Scottish Government has done in a sustainable way.

“We’ve got to protect the planet. We’ve got to protect our communities, and that’s at the heart of the Government’s agenda in Scotland.”

The visit has drawn criticism from political opponents, including Scottish Greens co-leader Patrick Harvie, who labeled Swinney’s willingness to meet Trump as “out of step with Scotland’s values.” Trump is expected to return to the UK in September for an official state visit.