Donald and Melania Trump’s second state visit to the UK began today (17 September) with some reported breaches of royal etiquette. According to The Mirror, they were “late to arrive and kept Prince William and Kate Middleton waiting,” as their helicopter landed around 12:16pm instead of the scheduled 12pm.

After landing, the Trumps were greeted by William and Kate before meeting King Charles III and Queen Camilla at Victoria House. While the Buckingham Palace website notes there are no strict rules, “many people wish to observe the traditional forms” such as bowing, curtsying, or using correct addresses. Critics suggested the couple may have broken protocol, echoing similar claims from Trump’s 2019 visit.

King Charles, who has admitted he dislikes delays, was seen waiting inside Victoria House as the helicopter arrived. During his coronation in 2023, he reportedly complained: “We can never be on time.”

Despite this, the welcome was highly ceremonial. The Trumps joined Charles, Camilla, William, and Kate in a carriage procession through Windsor estate, involving 120 horses and over 1,300 members of the armed forces. National anthems were played as thousands watched.

Events will continue with a state lunch, a guard of honour, a royal salute, and Trump laying a wreath at Queen Elizabeth II’s tomb.