More than 100 US secret service agents are set to accompany Donald Trump during his upcoming UK visit following the recent killing of Charlie Kirk. The extensive police operation, costing millions of pounds, will be on high alert in the aftermath of the assassination of the US President’s close associate at a university in Utah. The security measures will include a significant deployment of drones above Windsor Castle, where Trump and his wife Melania will be hosted by the King.
In addition to the US agents, thousands of British police officers will be on duty during the two-day visit. MI5 is keeping a close watch on potential lone-wolf attackers and underground political adversaries, while SAS troops are prepared to respond to any threats, supported by a US special forces unit.
A security insider noted that the recent incident in Utah has added complexity and uncertainty to the security planning, emphasizing the need for vigilance against potential threats.
Amidst preparations for Trump’s visit, a group called the Stop Trump coalition is organizing a protest in London under the banner “Trump Not Welcome,” criticizing the US President for his stance on climate science and alleged support for war crimes in various countries.
Authorities are taking stringent measures to prevent any disruptions during Trump’s stay in the UK, as even minor disturbances could be seen as a victory for protesters. The security services are closely monitoring for any signs of planned disruptions or threats posed by known individuals or unknown sources.
The first day of Trump’s visit will involve private meetings with the King and Queen at Windsor Castle, featuring a flypast by the Red Arrows and military jets from the UK and US. The subsequent day will see the President and First Lady departing for Chequers, the Prime Minister’s country residence, with tight security arrangements in place, including the transport of the President’s motorcade by US Air Force aircraft.
Trump will be traveling in the heavily fortified Cadillac One, known as the “Beast,” with Windsor airspace to be restricted from the state visit rehearsal until the end of the President’s visit. Insp Matthew Wilkinson, airspace bronze commander for Thames Valley Police, highlighted the significant policing operation in place for the event, which includes the use of advanced drone technology for surveillance.