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The US president arrived in the UK ahead of what marks his repeat state visit, an occasion labeled as unprecedented in recent political relations.

The president and his wife Melania landed on Tuesday evening at Stansted Airport on Air Force One. Their itinerary features activities over the next two days, including being hosted by the monarch, armed forces displays, and a potential aerial demonstration by the Red Arrows together with British and American F-35 fighter aircraft.

Demonstrations Mount Against Trump’s Policies and Rhetoric

Trump’s arrival has triggered backlash from multiple groups in the UK, with the Stop Trump Coalition organizing a demonstration in Windsor on Tuesday and scheduling a further rally in central London on Wednesday.

One prominent figure claimed the US president of fanning the flames of polarizing, radical politics across the globe in recent years.

The same individual asserted that Trump’s deployment of the military in US cities and focus on of minorities resembled tactics taken from the authoritarian’s handbook.

He stressed that while preserving strong ties with the US is practical, the UK should not hesitate to criticize a leader who promotes divisive policies.

Official Greeting and Demonstration Details

Upon arrival, the presidential couple were greeted by American diplomatic representatives and a royal envoy representing the king. The foreign secretary was one of those present to meet the president.

The Trumps then boarded Marine One, the presidential helicopter, which took off shortly after their arrival. They were expected to travel to Winfield House in a central London location.

At the same time, around 70 protesters gathered outside Windsor Castle, holding signs and shouting phrases such as “No to Trump” and “Donald Trump not welcome here”.

A protester stated, “We need to demonstrate that we do not support what is happening in the world right now.”

A different attendee voiced dismay at the UK leadership’s decision to extend such a warm welcome, describing it as “repulsive” and asking whether Trump merited such exceptional treatment.

Royal Events and Armed Forces Participation

The royal couple are scheduled to greet the presidential pair with a ceremonial welcome at Windsor Castle, featuring gun salutes discharged at the same time in Windsor and at the Tower of London.

The Ministry of Defence confirmed that this would be the biggest guard of honour ever presented during a state visit, with about 1,300 military personnel and 120 horses taking part.

The event will also include a carriage procession to the castle, accompanied by the household cavalry, and a military musical performance ceremony—a debut such an act has been performed for a state visit.

A lavish state banquet includes performances by multiple ensembles, such as the a royal musical unit and bagpipe players from the a historic regiment.

Mixed Public Reaction and Future Engagements

While many demonstrated, some expressed support for the US president’s visit. One supporter stated that Trump’s presence could assist in brokering global stability and strengthening global partnerships.

Another local said that while not protesting, they believed the protests represented the opinions of the majority in the UK, adding that the state visit seemed designed to placate Trump rather than represent public sentiment.

Trump is set to travel to the country residence of the UK prime minister on Thursday, with military aviators positioned along the route upon his arrival.