Donald Trump to be challenged by John Swinney on Gaza during Scotland trip
John Swinney will raise the plight of the people of Gaza with President Trump when they meet in Scotland next week.
The First Minister also backed the right to 'peaceful demonstration' on the eve of huge protests against the Republican politician's visit.
Trump will fly into Scotland tomorrow for a five day trip that will mix business and pleasure.
He will visit his golf courses in Ayrshire and Aberdeenshire, as well as meet Labour Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Swinney.
The SNP First Minister has been criticised for meeting Trump and he has confirmed he will raise issues of concerns during any summit.
Senior political figures have accused the US of helping Israel pursue a genocide in Gaza and Swinney will broach the war with Trump.
In a statement ahead of the President 's trip, the First Minister said: 'Scotland shares a strong friendship with the United States that goes back centuries. That partnership remains steadfast through economic, cultural and ancestral links – including of course, with the President himself.
'As we welcome the President of the United States, Scotland will be showcased on the world stage. This provides Scotland with a platform to make its voice heard on the issues that matter, including war and peace, justice and democracy.
'It also includes the millions of Americans – many of them potential future tourists or investors in Scotland – who will watch their elected President as he visits our country.
'As First Minister it is my responsibility to advance our interests, raise global and humanitarian issues of significant importance, including the unimaginable suffering we are witnessing in Gaza, and ensure Scotland's voice is heard at the highest levels of government across the world. That is exactly what I will do when I meet with President Trump during his time in Scotland.
'We are a proud democratic nation, a country that stands firm on the principles of equality and freedom for all, and a society that stands up for a fair and just world. The right to peaceful demonstration is something we cherish, and everyone has the democratic right to protect and express their views in a peaceful, and democratic manner. That is right and proper.
'I am confident the vast majority of people protesting will do Scotland proud and demonstrate as they should – peacefully and lawfully. I am also confident that Scotland 's police service can handle the challenge of keeping all our communities safe and, as they must, in maintaining the appropriate security any US President requires.'
He is expected to open another golf course in Aberdeenshire next week as part of his trip.
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