Newsroom
President Donald Trump wrapped up his whirlwind second state visit to the United Kingdom on Thursday with a mix of politics, pomp, and a surprise musical moment that had onlookers grinning.
As part of the visit, a UK band played the iconic “YMCA” while Trump waved and mouthed the lyrics, a lighthearted scene captured on video that quickly went viral. It was a rare moment of levity in a visit dominated by heavy political and economic discussions.
This is brilliant - the band played YMCA for President Trump pic.twitter.com/GjxACbB21e
— British Royaltea (@BritishRoyaltea) September 18, 2025
The visit also included a high-profile meeting with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer at the prime minister’s Buckinghamshire residence, Chequers. Leaders announced a major new deal, with U.S. investment in the U.K. expected to total £150 billion. Government officials said the influx could support new jobs, boost innovation, and strengthen the long-standing economic bond between the two nations.
Earlier in the day, King Charles praised Trump’s “commitment” to global peace efforts, while Trump described the U.K.-U.S. relationship as “priceless and eternal” at a state banquet.
The visit was not without controversy. Thousands of protesters took to the streets of London, expressing opposition to Trump’s policies and questioning his influence on U.K. affairs. Despite the demonstrations, the administration and British officials highlighted the economic benefits of the visit, pointing to job creation and investment opportunities as key takeaways.
Trump’s trip combined the ceremonial and the substantive. From Buckingham Palace receptions to high-level business discussions, the visit underscored both the political and cultural ties that continue to link the U.S. and the U.K., with a dash of unexpected showmanship along the way.
