Thousands of protesters filled the streets of Edinburgh today as former U.S. President Donald Trump arrived in Scotland for a private visit to his golf resort. But this wasn’t just a local disruption — it quickly became a powerful, global statement.
The protest brought together a broad coalition of activists: environmental groups, human rights advocates, pro-Palestinian supporters, and LGBTQ+ organizations. Their message was loud, clear, and emotional: Donald Trump is not welcome here.
Why Are People Protesting Trump in Scotland?
Trump’s presidency left behind a legacy that continues to divide public opinion. For many protesters in Scotland, his arrival reopens old wounds — from aggressive foreign policies and climate denial to his divisive rhetoric on race, immigration, and gender.
Signs like:
- “No Red Carpet for Dictators”
- “Trump Out!”
- “Free Gaza”
showed that this protest wasn’t just about Scotland. It was about standing against everything Trump’s critics believe he represents: authoritarianism, injustice, and global inequality.
The “Free Gaza” slogans, in particular, reflect growing outrage around the world. Many believe Trump’s past policies enabled military actions that worsened humanitarian conditions in Gaza. Protesters raised Palestinian flags alongside climate banners and LGBTQ+ pride colors, signaling a global unity for human rights.
A Global Moment, Not Just a Local March
What started as a peaceful demonstration in Edinburgh quickly made headlines around the world. Videos of the crowd chanting:
“Donald, Donald, hear us shout — all of Scotland wants you out!”
spread rapidly on social media. Hashtags like #TrumpNotWelcome and #FreeGaza began trending across platforms.
“This is about more than Trump,” said Isla McGregor, a student protester from Glasgow. “This is about resisting fear and greed. About standing up for the people who have no voice.”
From environmental justice to foreign policy, the crowd’s anger spanned issues that resonate across borders.
What Scotland’s Leaders Are Saying
Scotland’s First Minister John Swinney didn’t mince words either. Addressing the media earlier today, he criticized Trump’s role in international conflict and voiced solidarity with Palestinians affected by war.
“Scotland stands for peace, justice, and dignity,” Swinney said. “We do not roll out the red carpet for war criminals or those who fuel division.”
Though Trump’s visit is unofficial, his presence has triggered serious political debate in the Scottish Parliament.
Trump’s Reaction
Trump responded to the protest in his usual tone. Posting on Truth Social, he wrote:
“The Radical Left in Scotland is out of control. I came here to play golf and enjoy the beautiful country — only to be met by angry protestors funded by Soros-type groups. Very fake. Very sad!”
He did not directly respond to the Gaza chants but dismissed the event as a “media hoax” and “distraction.”
What Happens Next?
The protests in Edinburgh show how deeply Trump still divides opinion — not just in America, but around the world. From college students to climate warriors, many see this as a moment to reassert their values and stand in solidarity with those affected by war, inequality, and political extremism.
As the sun set on Scotland’s capital, the chants echoed through the cobblestone streets. Candles were lit in honor of Gaza, songs were sung in Gaelic, and handmade banners fluttered in the wind.
One message stood above the rest: “We remember. We resist. We rise.”
Final Takeaway
The Edinburgh protests on July 26, 2025 weren’t just an objection to Trump’s presence—they were an emblem of wider resistance. From Gaza solidarity to democratic values, the protest wove together multiple threads of global concern into one resonant demonstration.
As dusk fell, protest banners fluttered across Princes Street, candles shone for Gaza, and chants echoed again:
“Scotland remembers. Scotland resists. Scotland stands.”
https://x.com/MarcoFoster_/status/1949086248875733305
1 thought on ““Trump Out!”: Why Thousands Are Protesting Donald Trump in Scotland Today”