First Minister to discuss whisky tariffs, Gaza, and Ukraine with Trump

John Swinney and Donald Trump are expected to have a one-to-one meeting later this week to discuss whisky tariffs, Gaza, and Ukraine.

Swinney said it’s his duty as First Minister to “engage, protect, and promote” the interests of Scotland during the US President’s visit.

Trump will be at both of his golf courses in Scotland: Turnberry in Ayrshire and Menie in Aberdeenshire, between July 25 and 29.

He will meet with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer in Aberdeen, and plans are also being made for him to meet Swinney, according to the Scottish Government.

“Many of the economic ties that are so significant for Scotland will be issues that I would want to discuss, particularly some of the issues around tariffs, which can have a very negative effect on some of our key industries, particularly around Scottish whisky, which is so important to the American market,” Swinney said on Wednesday.

“And then, of course, there are issues of international significance that trouble us all — the situation in Gaza and the situation in Ukraine, which are obviously issues of significant importance to me and the people of Scotland.”

Trump’s visit is the biggest policing operation that Police Scotland has faced since Queen Elizabeth’s death.

The Scottish Police Federation, which represents rank-and-file officers, warned again that the Presidential visit will have a significant impact.

But Swinney said he’s “confident” Police Scotland has the resources and planning to deal with the visit.

Trump’s visit is expected to spark protests from community members who object to the Republican president’s views on a variety of issues, including the conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine.

Swinney previously urged protesters to express their views “peacefully” and “within the law”.