Gun salutes. Horses. Bagpipes. Britain rolled out the kind of pageantry that could make even a jaded world leader pause.
On Wednesday, it was Donald Trump soaking it in at Windsor Castle.
Meeting King Charles III for a rare second state visit, the U.S. president was treated to one of the largest military welcomes in modern British history.
120 horses, 1,300 troops, red tunics, gold helmets, the works.
Inside the castle gates — and far from thousands of London protesters chanting “Trump not welcome” — the president and First Lady Melania Trump were greeted by Prince William and Princess Catherine.
They then shook hands with Charles and Queen Camilla.
A 41-gun salute thundered across the grounds as the royals ushered their guests toward a carriage procession and private lunch.
The Stakes Were High Beyond The Pomp
Prime Minister Keir Starmer is hoping royal charm plus billions in investment pledges from Google, Microsoft and GSK.
This can sweeten trade talks with a mercurial U.S. leader.
Yet awkward shadows linger — from questions about Jeffrey Epstein to lingering tariffs.
For Charles, the spectacle offers both risk and reward.
As historian Anthony Seldon put it, “If it goes well, this could be the most consequential event of his reign.”
Britain’s soft power is on full display — but can it win over Trump?
