Donald Trump and Melania arrived in London for their UK state visit—but the lack of a red carpet sparked outrage online, with many calling it an insult.
Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump touched down in London on Tuesday evening (September 16) for the former president’s second official state visit to the United Kingdom. But while the trip is packed with royal ceremonies and high-level meetings, his arrival has already sparked controversy.
Air Force One landed at London Stansted Airport just after 9 p.m. (BST), where Trump and Melania were greeted by UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper, U.S. Ambassador to the UK Warren Stephens, and Viscount Hood, Lord-in-Waiting, on behalf of King Charles.
After a brief welcome, the couple boarded Marine One, which flew them to Winfield House, the U.S. Ambassador’s residence in Regent’s Park, where they stayed overnight.
Trump appeared upbeat upon landing, praising the UK:
“We had a good flight, a lot of people came with us. Tomorrow’s going to be a very big day. I love Turnberry. I love Aberdeen… It’s a very special place, great place.”
He also spoke warmly about King Charles III, saying:
“We’re going to see him tomorrow, and he’s been a friend of mine for a long time. Everybody respects him, and they love him.”
The Missing Red Carpet
However, many people online were quick to point out one glaring detail—there was no red carpet rolled out when Trump stepped off Air Force One.
One user wrote:
“US President Trump arrives in the United Kingdom on an official visit… but no red carpet for him in London, just the runway and a few soldiers!”
Another added:
“No red carpet treatment for Trump as he arrives into the UK on Air Force One. Whatever you may think of him, this just isn’t protocol and an insult.”
A third remarked:
“No red carpet for Trump in England. Shame on you, Starmer!”
While some called it an intentional slight, others argued that Stansted Airport typically doesn’t host full red-carpet welcomes, which are usually reserved for formal receptions at royal venues such as Windsor Castle.
What’s Next on Trump’s Schedule
On Wednesday, Trump is expected to meet Prince William and Princess Kate, followed by an official audience with King Charles and Queen Camilla at Windsor Castle. The day’s events will include:
A military flypast
A visit to Queen Elizabeth II’s tomb
A lavish state banquet at Windsor, where both King Charles and Trump will deliver speeches
Adding to the drama, Trump’s arrival coincided with protests. Demonstrators projected images of Trump and the late Jeffrey Epstein onto Windsor Castle, leading to four arrests.
Whether the missing red carpet was protocol or politics, the moment has already fueled heated debate online—and set the tone for what promises to be a closely watched visit.
Featured Image Credit: Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images
