Windsor, England – On their second state visit to the United Kingdom, U.S. President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump arrived late to their scheduled meeting with Prince William and Catherine, Princess of Wales, at the Windsor estate. The couple was set to be greeted by the royal couple at noon but their Marine One helicopter was seen landing around 12:10 p.m., approximately 15 minutes behind schedule.
The meeting with the Prince and Princess of Wales marked the official beginning of the Trumps’ second state visit to the UK, a rare honor for a U.S. President. The visit, which is being hosted by King Charles III, includes a full day of royal pomp and ceremony.
Despite the delay, a smiling Princess Kate was seen greeting the President warmly and shaking his hand. Prince William and the President then walked side-by-side, engaged in conversation, as they headed toward a meeting with King Charles and Queen Camilla. The royal family and the Trumps were set to take a carriage procession through the Windsor estate before a state banquet at St George’s Hall in the evening.
The visit, which has been described as “historic” and “unprecedented” by U.K. officials, also includes a meeting with Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Thursday to discuss trade and other key issues. The late arrival at Windsor, though minor, has been noted by observers as the first hiccup in a highly choreographed diplomatic itinerary.