State visit: live updates as leaders meet in historic talks

09/18/2025

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STATE VISIT LIVE

Donald Trump’s state visit to the UK has shifted between pomp and political friction, with a high‑stakes Chequers meeting and promises of major US investment set against awkward questions about Jeffrey Epstein and shifting diplomatic moves in London.

What the day looks like: Windsor, Chequers and live press moments

The presidential party left Windsor Castle this morning after a private tour. Their schedule underlined the ceremonial tone of the trip.

  • 10:00am — Departure from Windsor Castle.
  • 10:45am — Arrival at Chequers, greeted by RAF Halton Guard of Honour and bagpipers.
  • Earlier — Tours of the Queen’s Dolls House and the Royal Library.
  • 2:25pm — Joint press conference with the Prime Minister, set to be broadcast live.

At Chequers, the leaders will view the Sir Winston Churchill archives, hold a bilateral meeting, and watch a British Army aerial display.

Massive investment deal announced: what the £150bn package promises

Downing Street described the agreement as a game‑changer in industrial partnership. The pact targets next‑generation technologies.

  • £150 billion of planned inward investment from US firms.
  • Funding aimed at artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and nuclear projects.
  • Government estimate: more than 7,600 jobs created across the UK.

The Business and Trade Department framed the pact as evidence of a shared economic ambition between the two nations.

Epstein questions shadow the meeting: Starmer faces the press

Journalists are expected to press Sir Keir Starmer on links to Jeffrey Epstein during the Chequers press event.

Recent developments around Lord Mandelson’s past association with the convicted sex offender complicate the environment. Mandelson’s dismissal was widely reported after those revelations.

Back in the United States, pressure continues for the release of government records tied to the criminal cases around Epstein, adding an international angle to the questions.

Timing and media expectations for the Chequers briefing

The joint appearance is scheduled for 2:25pm. Reporters will likely combine queries on the investment pact with more sensitive topics.

Key lines of questioning likely to arise

  • Details of how the investment funds will be allocated.
  • Employment and regional impact across the UK.
  • Clarification on any links between senior figures and Jeffrey Epstein.

Foreign policy ripple: Starmer and recognition of a Palestinian state

According to reports, Sir Keir plans to formally recognise a Palestinian state after Trump departs the UK.

Downing Street is said to have delayed the announcement to avoid overshadowing today’s joint press conference.

Washington has warned that recognition could be seen as rewarding Hamas, and the timing ties into a broader diplomatic push ahead of the UN General Assembly.

Other notable headlines from the visit

  • Entertainment row: While staying in Windsor, President Trump reacted to the suspension of Jimmy Kimmel’s show, calling the news “great” on his social platform.
  • EU‑UK talks: Brussels signalled it will not ease food import rules without progress on freedom of movement for young Europeans, placing pressure on the UK to finalise sanitary and phytosanitary arrangements.

The EU demand raises domestic stakes for the government as it seeks to curb food price inflation and deliver on election pledges to lower costs by 2027.

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