Trump Takes 5-Day 'Working Visit' to His Golf Clubs in Scotland as Epstein Controversy Boils
Trump arrived in Scotland on Friday and is expected to spend part of his trip at his Turnberry golf resort, as well as attend the opening of his Aberdeen club, named after his Scottish mother, Mary Anne MacLeod, CNN reported.
Despite a packed schedule that includes trade talks with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Sunday and multiple meetings with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer to discuss trade agreements with the European Union (EU) and the UK, according to reporting by ABC News, many view the visit as an attempt to sidestep mounting media scrutiny over the ongoing Epstein controversy.
The U.S. president has attempted to distance himself from the disgraced financier following the Department of Justice's announcement that no additional files, aside from a grand jury testimonial, would be released, sparking outrage among his MAGA supporters. In place of an Epstein-related document dump, the Trump administration tried to shift focus by releasing more than 230,000 pages of Martin Luther King Jr. files. Simultaneously, the administration proposed changes to Coca-Cola's recipe and targeted "The View," seemingly aiming to divert media attention.
However, upon landing in Scotland, Trump was asked whether he asked "House Republican leaders to not vote on the resolution about the Epstein files" upon landing at Glasgow Prestwick Airport.
"Did you ask House Republican leaders to not vote on the resolution about the Epstein files?" a reporter asked Trump after he landed at Glasgow Prestwick Airport.
"No, I was never involved in that," Trump said. "I'm focused on making deals, I'm not focused on conspiracy theories that you are. I mean, I watch you people, it's so sad. You ought to talk about the success of our country instead of this nonsense you talk about over and over again," he added.
In response to his arrival, the "Stop Trump" coalition organized demonstrations outside U.S. consulates across Scotland on Saturday, AP News reported. Along with condemning the impact of his luxury Trump resorts on Scotland, protesters criticized what they believe is his harmful worldwide influence.
"I think there are far too many countries that are feeling the pressure of Trump and that they feel that they have to accept him and we should not accept him here," June Osbourne, an Edinburgh resident attending Saturday's protest told AP News. The dual-U.S.-British citizen said the Republican president was "the worst thing that has happened to the world, the U.S., in decades."
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DW
41 minutes ago
- DW
What's behind UK foreign policy change on Palestinian state? – DW – 07/31/2025
British PM Keir Starmer has said unless Israel takes significant steps toward peace, the UK will recognize a Palestinian state. He's using the "inalienable right of the Palestinian people" as a diplomatic tool. The new direction for the UK's foreign policy regarding the Middle East came shortly after British Prime Minister Keir Starmer met with US President Donald Trump in Scotland. Just a day later, on July 29, Starmer interrupted his cabinet ministers' summer break for an emergency meeting, after which the policy turnaround was presented in London. In a statement, Starmer, the leader of the center-left Labour Party, said the UK could recognize Palestine as a state as soon as September unless Israel's government moved toward meeting certain conditions, including a ceasefire, not annexing the occupied West Bank and committing to a long-term peace process. Britain believes "statehood is the inalienable right of the Palestinian people," Starmer said. His government is using the recognition of a Palestinian state as a means of political pressure to push forward the so-called two-state solution. To view this video please enable JavaScript, and consider upgrading to a web browser that supports HTML5 video Until now, the UK has delayed its recognition of a Palestinian state in part because of the country's own historical responsibility. Between 1920 and 1948, Britain was the administrative power in Palestine, which had previously been part of the Ottoman Empire. In 1917, the British government issued a statement — the Balfour Declaration, named after then-British Foreign Minister Arthur Balfour — that said it supported the idea of a "national home for the Jewish people" in Palestine. The declaration was made without considering the rights of the Arab majority population there and the move went on to spark violence between local Arabs, immigrant Jews and the British administration. Two years after David Ben-Gurion, the first prime minister of Israel, announced the establishment of the State of Israel, Britain recognized the country. But when it came to recognizing Palestine as a state, the UK regularly said that this had to be part of a peace deal. This was also strategic: Britain didn't want to jeopardize its relationships with the US or Israel. But this historical position has come under ever more pressure. The ongoing conflict in Gaza — fighting there began in October 2023 after an attack on Israel by the Gaza-based militant group Hamas, that resulted in the deaths of around 1,200 people and the kidnapping of 251 — has sowed serious internal divisions in the UK. In cities like London, Manchester and Glasgow, protesters regularly take to the streets in huge demonstrations calling for an end to the current conflict and Israeli occupation. These popular protests are supported by many local trade unions as well as left-leaning political organizations, such as the Palestine Solidarity Campaign and the Stop the War group (the latter also opposes Europeans fighting in Ukraine). Former Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn has also called for an end to weapons deliveries to Israel. In late July, Corbyn announced he was starting his own political party "to take on the rich and powerful." Corbyn was suspended from the Labour Party in 2020 after he said a report into antisemitism inside the party under his leadership had been exaggerated for "political reasons by our opponents inside and outside the party, as well as by much of the media." According to a YouGov survey undertaken on 24-25 July, around two-thirds of Labour supporters agree with the UK government's decision to recognize Palestine. Of the general public, the YouGov poll found that 45% think it's a good idea. In the British Parliament, 221 members have signed a letter calling for recognition of Palestine. Among the signatories were many Labour Party members. Ministers in Starmer's cabinet have also pushed in this direction. Starmer appears to have given in to the pressure, at least partially. But he reiterated the UK's support for Israel and demands on Hamas in the government statement on Tuesday. "We have been unequivocal in our condemnation of those evil attacks, and our support for the right of the State of Israel to self-defence. Hamas must immediately release all the hostages, sign up to an immediate ceasefire [...] and commit to disarmament." At the same time though, he was critical of the Israeli government's military offensive and its policies in Gaza. "Now, in Gaza, because of a catastrophic failure of aid, we see starving babies, children too weak to stand, images that will stay with us for a lifetime. The suffering must end," he told journalists. While the United Nations and leading aid agencies have repeatedly warned of the increasing risk of starvation in Gaza, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has insisted there is no hunger in the enclave. The most recent figures from the health authorities in Gaza indicate that more than 60,000 people have died in Gaza as a result of the Israeli military offensive. Almost half of the dead were women and children. The Gaza health authorities are controlled by Hamas, which administers the enclave. However, the death toll is considered broadly reliable, including by the Israeli military, which has used the numbers in its own briefings. Israel has denied international journalists entry into Gaza since the beginning of Israel's siege, meaning DW has not been able to independently verify the death toll. A number of recent studies however, suggest it may actually be an undercount. Starmer's decision to recognize Palestine may also be a reaction to the fact that France plans to do the same during the UN General Assembly in early September. As French President Emmanuel Macron explained in Paris late last week, France wants to revitalize a peace process there and put international weight behind a two-state solution. Unlike Macron, though, Starmer is only holding out the threat of recognition if Israel fails to move toward a ceasefire. Observers have argued that it's more of a balancing act for the UK, something between taking a moral stand and taking careful account of foreign relations with the US. Trump said he and Starmer had not, in fact, discussed a Palestinian state while in Scotland. Reacting to Starmer's announcement on Tuesday, Trump said, "I'm not going to take a position, I don't mind him taking a position." But later on, during his flight back to the US, Trump told reporters that Starmer was "rewarding Hamas." Israel's Netanyahu has described Starmer's plan as "appeasement towards jihadist terrorists." Currently, 147 out of 193 UN member states recognize Palestine as a state. However, what counts as a state is still disputed with different methods and prerequisites used to identify countries. Even so, several of the conditions usually accepted as necessary for a functioning state are presently not in place for Palestine. That includes a unified government, control over borders and security and clearly defined territory. In the statement announcing his government's change of course, Starmer emphasized that the Hamas group must "accept that they will play no part in the government of Gaza" in the view this video please enable JavaScript, and consider upgrading to a web browser that supports HTML5 video
Int'l Business Times
3 hours ago
- Int'l Business Times
End Of $800 Duty-Free Rule Sends Shockwaves Through US Small Businesses
President Donald Trump on Tuesday unleashed a new wave of tariffs targeting countries that have failed to finalize bilateral trade deals with the U.S., signaling a dramatic escalation of his second-term trade agenda. The White House announced a sweeping series of import duties, some taking effect as early as Aug. 1, that are expected to hit key sectors like manufacturing, electronics and retail. Among the most consequential measures is the end of the de minimis exemption, a long-standing rule that allows goods valued under $800 to enter the US duty-free. According to Wired, the exemption will be fully revoked for all countries starting Aug. 29, dealing a blow to small businesses and e-commerce platforms that rely on low-cost international shipments. "This is going to hit every small importer hard -- from Etsy resellers to small-scale manufacturers," said a compliance officer with a major logistics firm, as reported by Reuters. The move is widely expected to increase shipping costs, customs delays and administrative burdens for U.S. retailers and consumers alike. In addition, the Trump administration announced new 50% tariffs on copper and copper alloy products, citing national security concerns under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act. The tariffs will apply to imports from major producers including China, Brazil and South Korea. These metals are crucial for U.S. construction, electrical systems, and green energy technologies. According to AP News, more than a dozen countries -- including India, Turkey and Vietnam -- will now face tariffs between 25% and 30%, after failing to sign new bilateral trade agreements with the U.S. by the administration's Aug. 1 deadline. Trump's trade team framed the actions as part of a broader campaign to reset the global trading system. In a press release, Treasury Secretary Jacob Bessent said the U.S. is "enforcing fair trade standards globally" and warned that "countries that want access to the U.S. market must play by our rules," as quoted by Barron's. The crackdown is also targeting a practice known as transshipment, in which exporters route goods through third-party countries to disguise their true origin and evade tariffs. According to The Washington Post, the administration has announced new enforcement rules requiring enhanced origin verification for any product deemed at risk of transshipment abuse. Those rules go into effect in mid-August. Trade experts warn that the cumulative effect of these new measures could be severe. According to the Tax Foundation, the total volume of U.S. tariffs under Trump's second term is now on track to exceed those imposed during the height of the 2018–2019 trade war. A Yale Budget Lab analysis released in mid-July described the current U.S. tariff regime as "the most economically consequential and legally aggressive" in decades. Notably, a separate set of tariffs imposed earlier this year under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) was recently struck down by a federal court, which ruled that the president had exceeded his authority. According to Wikipedia, oral arguments in the appeal of V.O.S. Selections v. United States were scheduled for July 31, with a final ruling expected later this summer. If upheld, the decision could sharply limit the administration's ability to unilaterally impose future duties. Congress is also weighing its response. Lawmakers on both sides of the aisle are backing the Trade Review Act of 2025, which would require Congressional approval for any new tariff that remains in effect for more than 60 days. The bill has drawn support from small business groups, though the White House has threatened a veto. Details on the proposed law can be found on Wikipedia. Some signs of diplomatic progress have emerged. As reported by Investor's Business Daily, the U.S. and China reached a limited trade truce in June that included Chinese commitments on rare earth exports and opioid enforcement. However, the agreement expires Aug. 12, and the next round of negotiations remains uncertain. Back on Main Street, the latest moves have stoked anxiety among small business owners already struggling with inflation, supply chain instability, and rising borrowing costs. Industry groups have been quick to sound the alarm. The National Retail Federation warned that revoking the de minimis exemption will "punish U.S. consumers and small businesses," adding that the policy change amounts to a hidden tax on everyday goods, as reported by Reuters. Meanwhile, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce has urged the administration to "reconsider actions that risk destabilizing global supply chains." Whether the strategy succeeds in bringing trade partners to the table—or plunges the country into another prolonged trade war—will likely depend on what happens in the next few weeks.
Local Germany
3 hours ago
- Local Germany
What Americans need to know about studying in Germany
Germany is a popular choice for aspiring learners from abroad – not least because it offers free or low-cost tuition fees to both domestic and international students. In the 2023/2024 winter semester, around 469,485 international students were registered in Germany, according to statistics compiled by the Wissenschaft Weltoffen. The Bundesrepublik is also home to some of the world's top universities. According to an international university ranking for 2025 by Times Higher Education, the Technical University of Munich (TUM) ranked 26th in the world, while Heidelberg University took the 47th spot. Add to that a solid jobs market with opportunities for English speakers, it's no wonder that Americans are hopping over the Atlantic for a few years or longer. This longing to move among some US citizens and residents has intensified since Donald Trump was re-elected as US President. With the crackdown on immigration, turbulent politics and the rising cost of living showing no signs of dampening down, it's no wonder that many Americans are eyeing Germany to continue their education. READ ALSO: 'I will never move back' - How do Americans in Germany feel about Trump win? Here's what any Americans thinking about applying to study in Germany need to know: You don't have to pay tuition fees (in many cases) When deciding on where to study in Germany, you'll no doubt be thinking about the subject you want to specialise in, where you'd like to live and, of course, how much it's going to cost. In the United States, the cost of going to college depends on factors such as whether it's a public or private institution, and where it's situated. Students on average have to shell out around 38,270 US Dollars per year for their tuition, as well as other expenses like books and supplies, according to recent statistics on education. In Germany, you'll be glad to hear that it's a lot less expensive. In fact, at public universities, you don't even have to pay any tuition fees. Keep in mind, though, that students usually have to pay a Semesterbeitrag (semester fee) which covers administrative costs and other services. This could be anywhere from around €100 to €400, and often includes a public transport ticket. Advertisement Many of these also offer courses in English. If you're up to the job, you can also apply for a course in German, although a B2 level German language certificate will likely be required. Note that non-native English speakers will likely need to show proof of their English language skills. Public universities that provide free tuition and programmes in English include: Berlin's Free University, the University of Hamburg, the University of Göttlingen and University of Freiburg among others. A few universities, such as the Technical University of Munich, have different fee rules for international students so make sure you read the small print. READ ALSO: What international students should know about scholarships in Germany The 'best' universities in Germany for 2025 Photo: picture alliance/dpa | Julian Stratenschulte Even private university tuition in Germany is relatively affordable Budding students in the US may find that one of Germany's many accredited private universities are a better choice for them. That could be down to several reasons such as their varied selection of courses or because there are more English-language opportunities. Some private universities include: Bucerius Law School in Hamburg, Frankfurt School of Finance and Management and Bard College Berlin. There are also some private practical and technical schools - often with Hochschule in the name - offering English-language programmes. Fees are set at the discretion of the university but can be anywhere around €5,000-€7,000 per semester which is lower than many other countries (including the US). Advertisement You'll need a student residence permit As an American, you can enjoy visa-free travel to Germany. Citizens of countries including the US, UK, Canada, Australia, Brazil and Japan are allowed to spend 90 days in the EU in every 180 without needing a visa (although bear in mind that you'll have to get familiar with the EU's new Exit and Entry System rules known as EES). However, Americans do need a student residence permit to attend university. After you've arrived in Germany and registered your address, you'll need to get an appointment at the local immigration office (Ausländerbehörde) – and make sure you have your documents ready to go! CHECKLIST: How to move to Germany as an American The most important one for students is your certificate confirming your enrolment to an accredited study programme in Germany. Bring that along with an application form, biometric pictures and a valid passport. You'll also need to meet other requirements such as having health insurance and some money saved (more on that below). Check the requirements of your local authority because you may need other documents such as proof of your rental contract or a letter from your landlord confirming your address. You'll also have to pay the fee for the permit. Some German universities offer support for their students coming from abroad, including helping them prepare residence permit applications. Advertisement Get familiar with key rules Americans coming to Germany – like other internationals – have to prove that they have enough money to support themselves. This often needs to be stored in a so-called 'blocked account' ( Sperrkonto ), which is a a special type of bank account for international students and other visa applicants. According to the latest figures, internationals starting university generally need a total of €11,904 per year in their account. This amounts to €992 per month for living expenses. Alternatively, some students lean on parental support to prove their financial stability. In this case, you can skip setting up the blocked account and instead provide a guarantee letter ( Verpflichtungserklärung ) from a guardian in which they confirm that they take full financial responsibility for you. The guarantor will need to provide a bank statement or other proof that they have enough money to do so. It is also a requirement in Germany for everyone, including students coming from abroad, to have health insurance. Depending on your age and other factors, you may qualify for public health insurance. Students over 30 generally have to take out private insurance. On average, the cost of student health insurance in Germany is between €130 and €150 per month, according to estimates from October 2024. READ ALSO: How much money do international students need to study in Germany? Be aware of the semester dates and deadlines If you're applying for university in Germany, you need to know when the semesters run, and the deadlines for joining classes. In Germany the academic year is split into two: The winter semester is from October to March and the summer semester runs from April to September. The semesters include a lecture-free period, known as a Semesterferien , when exams are typically scheduled. The deadlines can vary depending on the institution, but many schools have an application deadline around July 15th for courses starting in the autumn/winter period, and around January 15th for courses starting in the spring/summer period. A woman works on her laptop. Photo: Pixabay You can work part-time Students in Germany regularly find a part-time job to boost their bank account. International students, such as those from the US, are allowed to work up to 140 full days or 280 half-days per year without extra approval from authorities. A simpler way to think about it is that students from non-EU countries are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week. During the semester break there are no limits on the number of hours that students can work. READ ALSO: Weimar to Heidelberg - The best German university towns for foreign students Advertisement Many students opt for a minijob, which allows them to earn extra cash without paying full social security contributions. These can be found at bars and cafes, for example. From January 2025, students can earn up to €556 per month in a minijob, working around 43.3 hours per month at the new minimum wage. That works out at around 11 hours per week, which is below the 20 permitted for international students. Alternatively, depending on your industry, there may also be 'working student' ( Werkstudent ) jobs to be found. These jobs can be especially convenient for those on a student residence permit, because they are designed to be aligned with the working time limits mentioned above. They are also intended to let students get their foot in the door and gain some entry-level experience before graduating. Are you an American who has studied in Germany? Share in the comments about how you've found the experience – and any tips.
