On Saturday, intensive negotiations were underway between the EU and the US as both sides prepared for a crucial meeting in Scotland. This meeting will involve US President Donald Trump and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, aimed at averting a potentially costly trade war. Trump spent the night at his family-owned Turnberry golf resort during a private visit, using the opportunity to voice his criticisms of European leaders regarding issues such as wind turbines and immigration.
During his stay, Trump expressed his concerns about the proliferation of windmills across Europe, stating, “You’re ruining your countries. I really mean it, it’s so sad.” He elaborated on his viewpoint, saying, “You fly over and you see these windmills all over the place, ruining your beautiful fields and valleys and killing your birds.” Additionally, he emphasized the need for Europe to address immigration issues, warning that the continent as we know it could cease to exist if action isn't taken.
On Saturday morning, Trump chose to forgo a scheduled press meeting with journalists who accompanied him on Air Force One. Instead, he opted for a round of golf at his seaside course, where he was reportedly seen driving a buggy with music playing. Sky News noted that the playlist included popular tunes like Billy Joel’s “Uptown Girl” and Simon and Garfunkel’s “Bridge over Troubled Water.”
Trump's visit to Scotland, described as a four-day family trip, also includes meetings with European leaders and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. These discussions are raising hopes for new and refined trade deals involving the EU and the UK. Regarding the potential for an EU trade deal, Trump mentioned there are “20 sticking points,” although he refrained from disclosing what they are. He characterized von der Leyen as a “highly respected woman” and rated the chances of a successful meeting as “a good 50-50.”
It has been reported that von der Leyen and her aides will arrive on Saturday, with European Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič coming in on Sunday morning. The discussions are expected to focus on an outline agreement regarding tariff rates. Initial rumors suggest a possible agreement on 15% tariff rates for exports, including cars, while maintaining a 50% tariff on steel. Additionally, there may be a breakthrough regarding pharmaceuticals, proposing a 15% export rate, which would deviate from a long-standing World Trade Organization agreement that sets medicine tariffs at zero.
This proposed tariff on pharmaceuticals is a significant reduction from the 200% tariff Trump threatened earlier this month, which could have ignited a damaging trade conflict, particularly affecting countries like Ireland, Germany, Denmark, Belgium, France, and Spain.
As Trump arrived in Scotland, extensive security measures were implemented, marking the largest operation since the death of Queen Elizabeth II in 2022. Over 5,000 police and security personnel are involved in ensuring safety during the four-day visit. Stringent security protocols have been established, including high perimeter fences around the golf course and naval vessels patrolling the shore, complemented by security drones monitoring from above.
The meeting in Aberdeenshire will be followed by a series of discussions with Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Monday, with hopes that he will expand upon the preliminary trade deal reached in May. Trump's security presence may also serve as an indicator of heightened security measures expected later in August, when US Vice President JD Vance and his family plan to vacation in the Cotswolds, specifically in the village of Charlbury.
