Trump Plays Golf in Scotland as Demonstrations Erupt Across the Country

US President Donald Trump spent his first full day in Scotland playing golf at his Turnberry resort on the southwest coast, accompanied by his son Eric and US Ambassador to the UK Warren Stephens, while protests unfolded in several major cities.

Security remained exceptionally tight around the picturesque region: roads were closed, police checkpoints were operational, and Secret Service snipers were stationed at vantage points. Officers on quad bikes, alongside foot patrols with sniffer dogs, monitored the famed golf course, adjacent sandy beaches, and surrounding dunes. Some fellow golfers were subjected to pat‑downs by personnel.

Trump arrived in Prestwick on Friday evening, the motherland of his mother Claire, landing at nearby Prestwick Airport. Crowds gathered as Air Force One descended.

Tensions Surface Early

On arrival, Trump addressed reporters from the tarmac, sharply criticising Europe’s handling of irregular migration and renewable energy policies:

“You better get your act together or you’re not going to have Europe anymore… migration is killing the continent.”
“Stop the windmills. You’re ruining your countries.”

Although Trump professes a fondness for Scotland, his controversial politics and business ventures there have caused friction with local communities.

Widespread Protests Against Visit

Meanwhile, hundreds protested at Edinburgh outside the US Consulate, and in Aberdeen, near Trump’s other golf resort. Lead by the Stop Trump Coalition, the demonstrations featured placards declaring “Scotland hates Trump” and prominently displayed Palestinian flags.

“I am here because of fascism in America under Trump’s rule… and genocide in Gaza,” said Amy Hanlon, 44, at Aberdeen.

No protests were reported near Turnberry itself.

Mixed Reception from Locals

Not all welcomed Trump’s visit. At Prestwick Airport, one boy greeted him with a “Welcome Trump” sign, and another man waved a “Make America Great Again” flag.

Lee McLean, 46, from Kilmarnock, remarked:

“What I like about Trump is that he’s not really a politician, yet he’s the most powerful man in the world. I think he’s looking after America’s interests.”

Upcoming Trade Talks and State Visit

Trump had no public engagements scheduled on Saturday but posted on his Truth Social platform confirming discussions with leaders of Cambodia and Thailand aimed at resolving a border conflict that has resulted in at least 33 fatalities.

He is slated to meet European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen at Turnberry on Sunday to discuss trade issues, followed by talks with the UK Prime Minister, Keir Starmer. Afterwards, he will travel to Balmedie in Aberdeenshire to inaugurate his new golf course.

Trump is expected to return to the United States on Tuesday, but he will return to the UK for an official state visit taking place from 17–19 September, hosted by King Charles III.