Donald Trump's arrival in the United Kingdom for his state visit has been one of the most talked-about events of the week. The American president landed in London amid a heavy security deployment and with a packed agenda of official meetings.
From the very beginning, the protocol events in Windsor became a showcase of politics, tradition, and diplomacy. The British royal family put on the usual ceremonial display in honor of the visitor, with King Charles III and the Princes of Wales in attendance. However, what was supposed to be a solemn event turned into unexpected scenes that did not go unnoticed.
A welcome filled with expectation
The start of the visit was marked by media expectation. The gardens of Windsor Castle were chosen as the setting for the reception, with Charles III leading the ceremony. At his side, William and Kate Middleton were responsible for giving the official welcome to the Trumps.
The presence of Marine One, the presidential helicopter, added drama to the day. The landing was followed by dozens of cameras, while the royal family waited in formation. The scheduled speeches and the inspection of the royal guard completed a highly solemn staging.
Meanwhile, the streets of London filled with protesters who showed their rejection of the visit. Banners with critical messages and slogans against the Republican reflected the division his figure provokes. Even so, the atmosphere in Windsor remained under control and within the established protocol.
The gesture that made King Charles uncomfortable
The most talked-about moment came during the direct greeting between Trump and the British monarch. After shaking King Charles III's hand, the president decided to pat him several times on the back, a gesture that surprised everyone. In British tradition, this kind of physical contact with the sovereign is considered inappropriate.
The monarch's reaction was restrained, although the images showed some discomfort. Royal protocol establishes a formal treatment in which such familiarities are avoided. For the British press, the scene was a sign of disrespect toward the king.
Analysts agreed in pointing out that it was not a simple oversight, but a gesture that reflects Trump's direct style. The Republican has previously starred in similar situations with leaders and public figures. This time, the scene became one of the day's most widely reported headlines.
A greeting that breaks protocol with Kate Middleton
The other unexpected image featured the Princess of Wales. As he approached Kate Middleton, Trump did not hesitate to praise her appearance with a direct comment: "You're beautiful, very beautiful." The gesture, far from the required formality, prompted a smile from Prince William's wife.
The British press emphasized that this kind of expression has no place in an official greeting. The naturalness with which Trump broke protocol contrasted with the rigidity of the setting. In an instant, the focus shifted from diplomacy to anecdote.
Kate, true to her style, kept her composure and replied kindly. Even so, the scene quickly became a subject of debate in the media and on social media. Many interpreted the comment as a lack of etiquette that, added to the gesture with the king, defined the visit.