Trump to meet Swinney and open golf course on final day of visit

Trump to meet Swinney and open golf course on final day of visit

Craig Williams reporting for BBC Scotland News covers President Trump’s four-day visit to Scotland, highlighting the closing meeting with First Minister John Swinney after a day filled with discussions on whisky tariffs and the Middle East. Trump engaged in trade talks with the European Union during his visit, teeing off at his Turnberry resort and welcoming Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer beforehand. The duo then proceeded to RAF Lossiemouth and later joined the first minister for a meal at the Trump resort in Balmedie, near Aberdeen.

The trip involved a substantial police operation across Ayrshire and Aberdeenshire, with intensified policing for protest marches in Edinburgh and Aberdeen. The White House announced that discussions between Trump and the prime minister would address aspects of the trade deal between the nations. Despite agreements, a 10% tariff remains on Scotch whisky, a key export for Scotland. Trump expressed openness to discussing the tariff, stating his limited experience with whisky and teasing a potential change in stance after the meeting with the prime minister.

During a media conference at Turnberry, President Trump criticized wind turbines as “ugly monsters”, favoring the exploitation of North Sea oil and gas instead. Reiterating his stance on wind energy, Trump condemned the subsidies paid for turbines in Scotland and the UK, advocating for traditional energy sources. The president’s visit, labeled as a private trip, incorporated a blend of politics, business, and his passion for golf, underscoring his familial ties to Scotland through his mother’s heritage. Trump’s return to the UK in September for a state visit is anticipated, culminating in a stay at Windsor Castle with the King

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