Cancel Trump's State Visit To Scotland
Beyond the Union: Scotland’s Future
"From Devolution to Independence—What Comes Next?"
Scotland Should Have the Right to Host State Visits
The recent events at the White House, where the President of Ukraine was openly humiliated by the US President and his staff, have caused outrage across the world. Many global leaders and newspapers have condemned the way Ukraine’s leader was treated, with some even suggesting that the White House deliberately planned the spectacle to play out as it did.
In response, the First Minister of Scotland described the incident as "a clear cause for deep concern, for shock, for anger." That’s a statement I fully agree with – this wasn’t just a diplomatic blunder, it was a public humiliation of a leader whose country is fighting for survival.
Across the UK – and especially in Scotland – people are calling on the Prime Minister to cancel or at least postpone the planned UK state visit by the US President, Donald Trump. There’s a growing feeling that hosting someone with such a track record, particularly after these recent events, is both inappropriate and deeply disrespectful.
In Scotland, there’s also increasing pressure on the First Minister to take a clear stance. Many believe that the FM should formally notify the UK government and King Charles that Donald Trump is not welcome in Scotland. After all, it’s expected that Trump’s visit will include a stop at Balmoral Castle, the King’s private residence here in Scotland – a move that many people view as an insult.
There are calls for pro-independence MSPs to boycott any part of this UK state visit and to make it clear that there is no legal or political obligation for the First Minister – or any other Scottish politician – to attend.
Frankly, it’s about time that the Scottish Government stood firm and refused to take part in these UK state-led charades that do not reflect the views of many Scots.
This situation also highlights a bigger problem – Scotland’s lack of power to represent itself on the world stage. Under the Scotland Act, Scotland is blocked from hosting official state visits. Imagine how different things could be if we had the ability to invite leaders like the President of Ukraine to Scotland – to show solidarity and support without being tied to Westminster’s agenda. An independent Scotland could shape its own foreign relations, choosing to welcome those who align with our values of democracy, dignity, and respect.
Right now, we are limited by a system that treats Scotland as a side-show while the UK government calls the shots. This is exactly why independence matters – so that Scotland can have its own voice and make decisions that reflect the will of its people.
If the UK government insists on welcoming leaders like Donald Trump, Scotland should not be dragged along for the ride. And more importantly, we should be able to extend our own invitations to leaders who represent progress, peace, and justice – not just those who fit Westminster’s agenda.
It’s time for Scotland to move beyond the union – and claim our rightful place on the world stage.
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