Trump concludes Scotland visit with whisky and Gaza talks, capping off a four-day trip blending diplomacy and business. The US president met Scottish First Minister John Swinney at his Balmedie Estate, discussing North Sea oil taxes and Middle East tensions. Before departing from RAF Lossiemouth, Trump inaugurated a new course at his Aberdeenshire golf resort. He praised Swinney as a “terrific guy” and reaffirmed his Scottish ties, recalling his mother’s annual visits from New York.
A key focus was Scotland’s whisky tariffs, which Swinney urged Trump to reconsider. The 10% US levy costs the industry £4 million weekly. Trump, who admitted he’s “not a big whisky drinker,” pledged to review the issue before his September state visit. The president also criticized UK energy policy, calling North Sea oil a “treasure chest” and slamming wind turbines as “ugly monsters.” Swinney agreed oil firms face excessive taxes but stressed new drilling must align with climate goals.
Trump concludes Scotland visit with whisky and Gaza talks after Swinney pressed for US intervention. The first minister described Gaza’s humanitarian crisis as a Scottish “heartbreak” and urged Trump to push Israel for a ceasefire. The president reportedly showed “growing unease” over the conflict but made no firm commitments. Earlier, he claimed credit for preventing “about five wars,” prioritizing global diplomacy over golf.
Trump played rounds at Turnberry and his new Aberdeenshire course, joined by Ryder Cup captain Paul McGinley. Swinney gifted historical documents tracing Trump’s Scottish roots, while receiving a bald eagle figurine in return. Pro-Palestinian protesters shadowed the visit by boat near Balmedie, though police took no action. Trump now returns to Washington ahead of his UK state visit in September.
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