Thousands Rally in London to Protest Donald Trump’s Second UK State Visit
London, UK — Thousands of demonstrators filled Parliament Square on Wednesday, voicing strong opposition to US President Donald Trump’s second state visit to the United Kingdom.
The protest was organized by the Stop Trump Coalition, a network of over 50 unions, charities, and activist groups. The march began in Portland Place around 3:00 PM (BST) and moved through central London toward Whitehall before concluding in Parliament Square.
Many in the crowd carried placards with slogans such as “No to Racism,” “Stop Arming Israel,” and “No to Trump.” Others brought inflatable versions of the now-iconic Trump Baby blimp, which first made headlines during Trump’s 2019 visit.
According to the Metropolitan Police, around 5,000 people attended the protest. More than 1,600 officers, including 500 drafted in from outside London, were deployed to manage the demonstrations.
Police and Community Response
Deputy Assistant Commissioner Louise Puddefoot said it would be “another busy day” for police, just days after the Unite the Kingdom protest. She confirmed officers had worked closely with organizers to minimize disruption, urging protesters to be considerate of local residents.
Coalition’s Message
The Stop Trump Coalition, which brings together anti-racism activists, climate campaigners, and pro-Palestine groups, said the march was about resisting “the politics of Trumpism.” A coalition spokesperson stated:
“A government that bows down to Trump and racism is one that opens the door to fascism.”
Although President Trump did not appear at Parliament, protesters said their goal was to promote a democratic, inclusive vision of the world based on peace, justice, and international cooperation.
Why People Joined the Protest
Among those in attendance was Reverend Poppy Hughes, who said she was motivated by faith:
“Jesus preached peace and compassion — and that’s why I’m here.”
Political commentator Zoe Gardner, one of the organizers, explained:
“Trump represents everything we reject. We want our government to stand up and show that Britain won’t tolerate his politics.”
Climate activist Auriel Dowty Glanville dressed as the Statue of Liberty, complete with a torch bearing Trump’s face. She called the invitation for a second state visit “appalling,” claiming it was driven by trade interests.
Couple Sarah Montgomery and Claudio Solano wore masks reading “Trump stinks.” Montgomery quipped, “He still stinks — everything he stands for stinks.” Solano, originally from Brazil, added that Trump’s alignment with former Brazilian leader Jair Bolsonaro was “disgusting.”
The March and Rally
As the march paused outside Downing Street, police from Wales and Northern Ireland guarded the area. Demonstrators carried humorous but biting signs such as “Duck Off Donald” and “Feed Him to the Corgis.”
At Parliament Square, the rally featured speeches and performances. Singer Billy Bragg performed, while politicians Jeremy Corbyn and Zarah Sultana, comedian Nish Kumar, and Green Party leader Zack Polanski addressed the crowds.
Protests Beyond London
Smaller demonstrations also took place in Windsor, where Trump met the Royal Family. Protester Amy Tisi said she had also rallied during Trump’s first visit:
“It’s important to make a stand. This trip feels like it’s just fueling his ego.”
Not everyone opposed Trump, however. One supporter wearing a Davy Crockett hat shouted his praise, calling him “the greatest president.” His comments were quickly drowned out by boos from the crowd.
Controversial Incidents
Earlier, a van decorated with an image of Trump alongside convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein was spotted in Berkshire. Thames Valley Police later confirmed no arrests were made after speaking to the driver.
During the rally, Jeremy Corbyn criticized the police response, calling it “sinister” and accusing authorities of restricting free expression.
“They take away the right to protest because they don’t want us to protest,” he said.
In a separate incident on Tuesday night, images of Trump and Epstein were projected onto Windsor Castle. Four men were arrested in connection with the stunt.