President Trump hits the links at Turnberry as Scotland reacts
U.S. President Donald Trump spent the first full day of his visit to Scotland enjoying a round of golf at his luxury Turnberry resort on Saturday, while demonstrations were being organized across the country.
Accompanied by his son Eric, President Trump emerged from the resort in the morning and waved to photographers before heading onto the course. He arrived in Scotland on Friday evening, landing at Prestwick Airport to a crowd of onlookers eager to see Air Force One and its high-profile passenger.
Security was heightened in the usually peaceful southwest region. Roads around the resort were closed, police checkpoints were in place, and officers on horses, quad bikes, and on foot with sniffer dogs patrolled the area, including the famous course and surrounding beaches.
Though President Trump has often expressed his admiration for Scotland—his mother was born there—his visit sparked mixed reactions from the local community, reflecting ongoing debate about his policies and business dealings in the country.
Speaking briefly to reporters at the airport, President Trump weighed in on the issue of irregular migration in Europe. 'You better get your act together or you're not going to have Europe anymore,' he warned, saying migration was 'killing' the continent.
Trump's remarks and presence drew strong opinions from locals.
'I don't trust him, and I know I'm not the only one,' said Graham Hodgson, a retired resident. 'He's full of himself, and his economic policies like the tariffs are damaging globally. He says it's for America, but even Americans are paying the price.'
Despite the criticism, supporters also came out to show their approval. A young boy held a 'Welcome Trump' sign near the airport, while a man waved a flag bearing the slogan 'Make America Great Again.'
'He's not a typical politician, and that's what I admire,' said Lee McLean, 46, from Kilmarnock. 'He's focused on what's best for his country, and that's something we don't see often in world leaders.'
President Trump's five-day UK visit continues, with both scheduled meetings and further protests expected in the days ahead.
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