At around 12:15pm on Wednesday (17 September), US President Donald Trump, 79, and First Lady Melania Trump, 55, landed in the walled gardens of Windsor Castle.

Waiting to greet them were the Prince and Princess of Wales, who welcomed the pair as they stepped off Marine One.

Photos that quickly spread across social media showed the four exchanging handshakes before William and Kate led the Trumps towards the palace to meet King Charles III and Queen Camilla.

Handshakes Instead of Curtsies

After approaching the monarch, the president and First Lady again shook hands with Charles and Camilla before the group began chatting. But what caught the attention of viewers was Melania’s decision not to curtsy to either the King or Queen. She also skipped the gesture when greeting William and Kate after stepping out of the helicopter.

Many questioned why, but according to the royal family’s official website, no such gesture is actually required.

“There are no obligatory codes of behaviour when meeting a member of the Royal Family, but many people wish to observe the traditional forms,” the site states. “For men this is a neck bow (from the head only) whilst women do a small curtsy. Other people prefer simply to shake hands in the usual way.”

A Grand Welcome Ceremony

After the greetings and numerous handshakes, the Trumps joined Charles, Camilla, William, and Kate for a traditional carriage procession through Windsor’s parklands.

The ceremonial welcome was an impressive display, involving 120 horses and 1,300 members of the British military — including 160 from the Royal Marines and Royal Navy, 1,000 from the British Army, and 140 from the Royal Air Force.

As the carriages set off, Charles and Trump were seen in conversation, while Camilla and Melania appeared to be deep in discussion in the carriage behind. William and Kate followed in the next coach. The procession was accompanied by performances of both the American and British national anthems.

A Visit Marked by Controversy

Trump’s latest trip marks his second state visit to the UK, following his 2019 visit with the late Queen Elizabeth II.

This time, however, the president has no public-facing engagements, and his visit has already stirred controversy. Thousands are expected to protest during his two-day stay.

On Thursday (18 September), Trump is scheduled to meet UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer at Chequers, the prime minister’s country residence.