Thousands Stage Protests in London During Trump’s State Visit to the UK
On September 17, 2025, London witnessed tens of thousands of demonstrators taking to the streets in protest during President Donald Trump’s second state visit to the United Kingdom. While Trump was being received with full ceremonial honors at Windsor Castle—including a carriage procession, military guard of honor, and a lavish state banquet—protesters gathered in London to express their opposition both to him personally and to his policies.
One of the main demonstrations in central London was organised by the Stop Trump Coalition, alongside Amnesty International, women’s rights groups, and pro-Palestinian activists. Police estimated the crowd at around 5,000 people, many carrying banners with anti-Trump messages, signs decrying racism and fascism, and Palestinian flags. Smaller marches and symbolic actions also took place for issues ranging from climate change to human rights.
An especially dramatic moment came when protesters projected images of Trump alongside convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein onto a tower wall at Windsor Castle. This was interpreted by many as an effort to highlight allegations and controversies around Trump’s associations. Four arrests were made in connection with that projection.
Inside Windsor, Trump praised what he called the “special relationship” between the U.S. and the U.K., calling the visit one of the highest honors of his life. He and First Lady Melania Trump were treated to full royal pageantry by King Charles III, Queen Camilla, and other members of the royal family, including a state banquet and ceremonial honours.
Public opinion in Britain has been divided. A YouGov poll showed about 45% of Britons oppose the invitation of Trump for this visit. Critics have argued that inviting him for a state visit sends a troubling signal, given controversies around his rhetoric, immigration policies, and foreign policy positions.
Despite the protests, the visit proceeded largely undisturbed. Security was strong, and much of the official itinerary — the royal welcome, the formal events — went ahead without major disruption. Still, the protesters made their voices heard—through marches, symbolic displays, and media coverage—and ensured that alongside ceremony, criticism was very much part of the narrative.
In many ways, the protests reflect broader tensions in British society today: on immigration, international relations, human rights, climate, and the role of public dissent. Whether this state visit will shift any policies remains to be seen. But it is clear that a large segment of the population is demanding accountability, openness, and a clearer articulation of values — both from the U.S. president and from the British government welcoming him.