By Dimple Singh

Copyright timesnownews

United States President Donald Trump received an extraordinary royal welcome in the UK on Wednesday, marking the start of his historic second state visit. The day combined centuries-old royal traditions, military pageantry, and lavish hospitality, as Britain aimed to impress the American leader. Grand Welcome Trump and First Lady Melania Trump arrived at Windsor Castle aboard Marine One, which landed inside the castle’s Walled Garden. They were greeted by King Charles III, Queen Camilla, Prince William, and Princess Catherine. A 41-gun salute and the sound of bagpipes filled the courtyard as the President and the King shared a ceremonial handshake. Royal Ride With King Charles The President led a carriage procession through Windsor Castle in the gilded Irish State Coach, a carriage traditionally reserved for the State Opening of Parliament and famously used during Queen Elizabeth II’s wedding. The First Lady accompanied the Queen in a second carriage, wearing a striking maroon wide-brimmed hat. The procession passed through the Windsor quadrangle, with King Charles inspecting the troops while a colour guard lined the route. Military Flyover The UK showcased its military might with the largest honour guard ever assembled for a state visit, 1,300 members of the British military and 120 horses participated in the ceremony. The military display included a joint flyover by US and UK F-35 fighter jets. Three-Course French Menu The evening featured a glittering state banquet hosted by the King and Queen at St George’s Hall. Around 160 guests, including politicians, dignitaries, and celebrities, attended the white-tie dinner. Tables were decorated with seasonal flowers and herbs from the gardens of Buckingham Palace andWindsor Castle, arranged in silver-gilt centre pieces. Royal chefs prepared a three-course French menu. Guests will enjoy Hampshire watercress panna cotta with Parmesan shortbread and quail egg salad, organic Norfolk chicken ballotine wrapped in zucchini with thyme and savory-infused jus, and a vanilla ice cream bombe with Kentish raspberry sorbet and lightly poached Victoria plums. A wine list, including Wiston Estate Cuvee 2016, Domaine Bonneau de Martray Corton-Charlemagne Grand Cru 2018, Ridge Vineyards Monte Bello 2000, and Pol Roger Extra Cuvee de Reserve 1998, accompanied the meal. After dinner, rare historic drinks was served, including a 1945 vintage port honoring Trump as the 45th US President and a 1912 cognac marking the birth year of his Scottish-born mother. Political Meetings The visit also included political and business discussions, including a multi-billion-dollar technology deal and talks on the war in Ukraine. Despite protests outside, Windsor Castle became a stage for grandeur and royal spectacle, highlighting Britain’s efforts to impress the US President. (With inputs from AP) Get Latest News Live on Times Now along with Breaking News and Top Headlines from US News and around the World.