Protests Erupt in Edinburgh and Aberdeen Ahead of Trump’s Scotland Visit

On Saturday, Edinburgh and Aberdeen witnessed significant protests as hundreds of individuals gathered to oppose Donald Trump’s ongoing visit to Scotland. Many demonstrators displayed a range of anti-Trump slogans and messages, including support for Palestine, which took center stage after the president's dismissive comments regarding France's recognition of a Palestinian state.

Trump’s first full day included a round of golf at his Trump Turnberry resort in South Ayrshire, where he was accompanied by a substantial security detail that included army, navy, and counterterrorism personnel. The golf course had multiple layers of security, including police snipers positioned in scaffolding, sniffer dogs patrolling the area, and navy sweeps in the nearby waters, reflecting concerns over the president's safety during his visit.

As he prepared for his golf game, the president was seen enjoying classic songs on his golf buggy, having arrived in Scotland on Friday night before making his way to the luxury resort he acquired in 2014. Meanwhile, local authorities enforced road closures and restricted access for residents and journalists in anticipation of the protests.

Voicing their discontent, protest attendees emphasized that Trump was “not welcome” in Scotland. First Minister John Swinney, set to meet Trump during his stay, encouraged peaceful and lawful protests. In Edinburgh, demonstrators not only blocked access to the US consulate but also included representatives like Louise Brown, who, while dressed as a character from Margaret Atwood's "The Handmaid’s Tale," criticized Trump for undermining the rights of various marginalized groups.

In Aberdeen, Green MSP Maggie Chapman rallied crowds by denouncing Trump’s views on climate change and social services, asserting the protestors’ rejection of those beliefs. Tensions occasionally flared at the protests, particularly during speeches, highlighting the polarized views surrounding Trump’s visit. With additional police support from across the UK requested due to security concerns, approximately 1,500 officers were redeployed to manage the situation effectively.

Criticism also fell on Scotland's first minister for allocating £180,000 of public funds to support a golf tournament at Trump International golf links in Aberdeenshire. This decision was seen as controversial by opponents, who likened it to rewarding negative behaviors. Despite the protests, Trump is expected to hold meetings with European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen and UK politician Sir Keir Starmer in the coming days, underscoring the significance of his visit to Scotland.