Hundreds protest Trump's visit to Scotland amid heavy security

Hundreds of people took to the streets of Aberdeen and Edinburgh on Saturday to protest the arrival of U.S. President Donald Trump, who is in Scotland for a five-day visit.

A heavy police presence was maintained outside the Trump Turnberry resort in South Ayrshire, as authorities prepared for potential risks, including terrorism-related threats. Sky News reported that Scottish police had requested support from other parts of Britain to bolster security.

Assistant Chief Constable Emma Bond said that it would be "inappropriate" to overlook last year's assassination attempt on Trump while planning security for the visit. She described the operation as one of the most complex and challenging tasks that Scottish police have undertaken in years, with the cost expected to be "significant."

A group called "UK Stop Trump Coalition" posted videos on TikTok on Saturday, with one clip captioned, "Aberdeen is filling up with protesters against Donald Trump's golfing visit."

Protesters held signs reading "FELON 47 NOT WELCOME HERE," referencing Trump's criminal conviction, and displayed photos of Trump alongside Jeffrey Epstein.

Hundreds of demonstrators gathered near the William Wallace statue in central Aberdeen, where speakers included Scottish Green co-leader Patrick Harvie, climate activists and minority rights advocates, according to local STV News. Protesters also raised concerns over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

Kirsty Haigh, a member of the "Scotland Against Trump" alliance, told local media that protesters from across Britain had united to oppose Trump and what she called his "politics of division." She criticized Trump for using Scotland as a place to "cleanse his image."

CNN reported that Trump's trip to Scotland comes amid the political scandal over his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein, describing the visit as a "golf-heavy" escape from political tensions in Washington.

What's causing even greater public unease is the overlap between Trump's official responsibilities and his private business interests. As President, the security detail, use of Air Force One, and logistical arrangements for the trip are all funded by taxpayers - yet the visit's main focus is centered on his family's business empire.

During Trump's five-day stay in Scotland run from July 25 to 29, the bulk of his itinerary revolves around his family-owned properties. He is expected to visit the Trump Turnberry resort in South Ayrshire and Menie estate in north of Aberdeen, where he will inaugurate a new golf course. According to reports, these activities span roughly four days. 

By contrast, official meetings, including trade talks with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Scottish First Minister John Swinney, are expected to take up only about half a day.

The Washington Post bluntly criticized Trump's trip in Scotland, labeling it as an attempt to use public resources for personal brand promotion, effectively blurring the neutral position that should be maintained by a head of state. The Guardian also highlighted that the White House deliberately limited access for certain journalists, seeking to downplay the public's doubts over the trip.

The White House insisted that official matters and private affairs are "completely separate," stressing that Trump himself is not directly involved in the management of his businesses, which are overseen by a trust. However, the rhetoric has done little to alleviate the growing public skepticism.

(With input from Xinhua)