Donald Trump and his wife, Melania, are currently on a state visit to the UK, but their trip has already stirred controversy with multiple breaches of royal protocol.
The President and First Lady arrived in Windsor on September 17, 2025, where they were greeted by the Prince and Princess of Wales.
However, what should have been a smooth and respectful start to the visit quickly became the subject of public criticism.
Trump Breaks Royal Etiquette on Arrival
The day began with an awkward moment for the Trumps when they arrived late to meet Prince William and Kate Middleton.
Although their meeting had been scheduled for 12:00PM, Trump’s Marine One helicopter was still hovering over the Windsor estate at around 12:10PM.
The presidential arrival ultimately pushed the greeting ceremony off schedule, with Trump and Melania stepping out of the helicopter at 12:16PM, just behind the planned time.
Following the late arrival, Trump and Melania were escorted by William and Kate to meet King Charles and Queen Camilla at Victoria House.
Once introductions were made, the group moved on to a ceremonial event, which would see the Trumps joining the royal family for a carriage procession to Windsor Castle.
Trump’s Royal Faux Pas: Walking Ahead of King Charles
While the day's events continued, Trump’s actions once again raised eyebrows.
As he participated in a military inspection alongside King Charles, the US president broke one of the most sacred rules of royal protocol: walking in front of the King.
According to royal tradition, those meeting King Charles should walk behind him, reflecting their rank and the line of succession.
During the inspection, however, Trump marched ahead of the King, seemingly uninterested in following the traditional order.
The sight of Trump ahead of the monarch led to widespread backlash on social media, with many royal observers expressing outrage.
One Twitter user condemned Trump’s actions, writing: "Trump walking in front of the King. The man is a disgrace and has no respect for the King. Never did for the late Queen either."
A Delicate Day of Ceremonies and Public Engagements
Despite the controversy surrounding his behavior, Trump’s state visit continued with other ceremonial engagements.
The royal family had prepared a lavish welcome, complete with a guard of honor, a carriage procession through Windsor, and a formal lunch with the King and Queen.
A grand Beating Retreat ceremony, including a flypast of UK and US F-35 fighter jets and the Red Arrows, was also part of the planned celebrations.
Later in the day, Trump and Melania would visit the tomb of Queen Elizabeth II at St George’s Chapel, followed by a lavish state banquet in the evening.