In a shocking and unprecedented turn, Donald Trump has canceled his upcoming UK state visit. He told Theresa May that the reason why is that he expects large-scale protests against him. The visit is canceled ‘indefinitely.’
Trump told May that he would change his mind if the British perception of him improves.
According to those present with Theresa May, the British Prime Minister was ‘surprised’ to receive the cancellation call.
Labour Leader Jeremy Corbyn, who recently won a lot more seats for the country’s socialists, welcomed the news. “Cancellation of President Trump’s State Visit is welcome, especially after his attack on London’s mayor & withdrawal from Paris Climate Deal,” says Corbyn.
Previously, more than a million people signed a petition asking May to cancel Trump’s planned visit.
Trump’s UK troubles don’t stop with people not liking him. British police recently stopped sharing intelligence about the Manchester bombings when photos previously sent were leaked to the press.
Others are worried that Trump will have an uncomfortable confrontation with the Prince of Wales, who is an avid campaigner for stopping climate change.
A source told the Times: “Trump’s people are worried about an awkward moment, with Prince Charles saying ‘Why don’t you believe in climate change?’
“They do not want the President put in an awkward position where he’s being lectured. They want horses down the Mall, tea with William & Kate.”
“They want all that pomp and for it to go seamlessly, and one of the risk factors is Charles.”
Will public opinion of Trump change and allow him a visit in the future? The way Trump has been conducting himself, with support polls continuing to fall, it doesn’t seem likely.
UPDATE (03:30 ET): The White House is now denying that the visit was discussed, despite earlier reports from the UK media that said otherwise. Reports are now saying he’s only delaying his trip. Will update further if more info develops.