Donald Trump spoke at length about his golf resort in Turnberry while blending business matters with international diplomacy during his five-day stay in Scotland.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer appeared uneasy during Monday's press conference as Trump responded to a question about federal building renovations with an extended discussion on maintaining his luxury golf resort.
He praised the skilled workers in Ayrshire, mentioning an estimated $100 million spent on the hotel. "We did excellent work. You see how impressive it is? The ceilings were in poor condition—they were collapsing. It was outdated and poorly maintained. Now it’s completely renovated, and we preserved its character. The surroundings are equally stunning."
Trump’s trip highlights ongoing scrutiny over using official visits to promote his businesses. Scotland’s First Minister, John Swinney, faced backlash after confirming discussions to allocate £180,000 in public funds for the Aberdeenshire resort ahead of the 2025 DP World Tour event.
Trump repeated his push for the Open Championship to return to Turnberry, calling it "the finest resort globally." When asked about the event, Starmer deferred, stating the decision was not his to make, though he commended the location as "remarkable in every detail."
These remarks followed reports that senior officials had explored staging the 2028 Open at Turnberry after Trump’s repeated lobbying. Legal experts later raised concerns, suggesting such a move could breach U.S. constitutional rules preventing federal officials from accepting benefits from foreign governments.
Swinney declined to disclose security costs for Trump’s visit, citing ongoing talks with the UK government. Critics have challenged the use of public funds, with one protester in Aberdeenshire asking, "Why are our taxes funding his trip?"
At a demonstration near Trump’s Menie resort, Alena Ivanova of the Stop Trump Coalition Scotland said, "This visit was always about his personal gain." She encouraged scrutiny of Trump’s business dealings in Aberdeenshire.
The Menie resort was developed after a prolonged conflict with locals and environmentalists, who opposed the destruction of protected dunes and homes Trump deemed unsightly. Despite objections, he secured approval, pledging a £1 billion coastal development with golf courses and luxury accommodations.
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