Trump Golfing Amid Protests in Scotland
EDINBURGH, Scotland (AP) — President Donald Trump engaged in a round of golf at his coastal course in Scotland on Saturday, coinciding with nationwide protests criticizing his visit and accusing UK leaders of catering to him.
Trump, accompanied by his son Eric and U.S. ambassador to Britain Warren Stephens, played at Turnberry, a historic golf course owned by the Trump organization since 2014. Despite tight security, the protesters remained out of sight during his round. Dressed in black with a white “USA” cap, he was seen driving a golf cart.
After completing an initial nine holes and having lunch, Trump played another nine before security began to leave, indicating his day was winding down.
In Edinburgh, hundreds of demonstrators gathered near the U.S. Consulate, around 100 miles away. They expressed discontent with Trump and criticized British Prime Minister Keir Starmer for a recent trade deal negotiated to avoid high U.S. tariffs on British goods.
Protests also extended to other cities, with a coalition of environmental activists and opposing groups forming what they called the “Stop Trump Coalition.” Organizer Anita Bhadani described the events as a “carnival of resistance.”
Trump has Scottish roots as his late mother, Mary Anne MacLeod, was born on the Isle of Lewis. However, the demonstrators aimed to challenge any sense of welcome he might feel. Young protester Amy White, 15, emphasized the unity of diverse groups against Trump.
While protests were smaller compared to those during Trump’s previous visit in 2018, spirits remained high as attendees shouted “Trump Out!” and displayed signs with messages opposing him. The president, meanwhile, planned to discuss trade with Starmer and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen but focused primarily on golf.
