During his recent trip to Scotland, US President Donald Trump had a meeting with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer at the Turnberry golf course. Fast forward to next month, and Trump will again be in the UK, this time to be hosted by King Charles III in Windsor as part of his second official visit.
Significant security measures are always a huge part of these visits. So, how do the authorities get ready for something on this scale?
Getting Ready
Tim Brain, a former Police Chief with lots of experience regarding state visits, shared some insights with BBC Radio Berkshire. He mentioned that preparations began with an in-depth risk assessment—this includes everything from managing security measures to addressing traffic and public safety.
“It’s crucial for everything to run smoothly,” Brain added.
Once the visit was confirmed, a special planning team would’ve immediately been assembled, according to him. “Every police department has its operations units ready for big events like this,” Brain explained. The planning starts with securing the right personnel for the job.
They’ll draft an extensive operational order in coordination with their risk assessment, guaranteeing that each detail is accounted for in terms of location and timing.
A Complex Security Strategy
Moreover, Brain pointed out that embedding the right structure for the security operation is vital—especially when balancing the needs of Trump’s own security team while considering the protocols for state leaders he’ll meet.
“Any US president naturally attracts the spotlight, perhaps now more than ever,” he noted, adding that the US Secret Service maintains responsibility for keeping the President safe. Thus, working closely with local law enforcement is essential.
Given King Charles III’s own security needs, the operation requires precise coordination, or as Brain puts it, a “closely interlocked operation.” He remarked, “It’s like fitting together a jigsaw puzzle with many intricate pieces that all align perfectly.”
Managing Protests
Another factor to account for is the likelihood of protests happening during visits like this, similar to the ones seen in Edinburgh. Brain stressed that many protests can emerge even when they’re unrelated to the visiting dignitary simply because high-profile events provide that chance.
“There’s often a productive communication between police and those organizing protests,” he stated. “This helps shape a plan outlining what protesters can do, say, and show, maintaining public order while respecting the right to protest.”
As challenging as a security operation like this might be, Brain is confident that police will rise to the occasion. “They’ll appreciate the chance to tackle something this large and organized,” he remarked, adding, “It’s a big buzz… while it comes with pressure, it’s exactly what they’re prepared for.”
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