During his second state visit to the UK, Donald Trump spent a brief five minutes admiring valuable crown artifacts, despite expressing his admiration for the Royal Family. Upon arriving at Windsor Castle, the US president toured the Green Drawing Room, where he showed interest in various items from the Royal Collection related to the special relationship between the UK and the US. Trump quickly viewed the exhibits, including an art deco cocktail shaker shaped like a penguin and a letter from the Queen Mother to Queen Elizabeth II about trying hot dogs in America.
Although Trump had previously praised the royals and complimented King Charles as an “elegant gentleman,” he made enthusiastic remarks about the displayed letters, paintings, and photographs, repeatedly calling them “fantastic” and “wonderful.” While walking with King Charles, Trump interacted with the archivists and expressed his admiration for the items, particularly those associated with American Independence.
The Queen accompanied the First Lady, who wore a hat covering most of her face, and both appreciated paintings from the 1700s. The royal party, including the Prince and Princess of Wales and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, engaged with the librarians, asking questions and examining the details of the displayed artifacts.
During the visit, the Princess of Wales inquired about the artists’ names and reflected on the historical significance of handwritten letters. Prince William showed interest in a long message from President James Buchanan to Queen Victoria, the first transatlantic communication. Notably, Trump offered advice on pronunciation to one of the experts from the Royal Collection.
The lunch hosted by the Royal Family for the American visitors preceded the viewing of the Georgian Papers related to American independence, specifically requested by the President. The artifacts included letters from King George III and maps depicting crucial moments of the American revolution.
Trump expressed admiration for the documents, including a letter from Abraham Lincoln to Queen Victoria and an essay by King George III about trade relations with America post-independence. The Trumps also examined a copy of President Eisenhower’s memoirs gifted to King George VI, highlighting their shared history during World War II.
Six members of the Royal Family attended the private lunch with the Trumps, including the King, Queen, Prince and Princess of Wales, and the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester. The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh were absent, while the Princess Royal was expected to join the family for the evening banquet.