Why Melania Trump didn't curtsy to the Royal Family during UK visit after royal fans accuse her of breaking protocol
The US president, 79, and First Lady, 55, touched down in the walled garden of Windsor Castle at around 12:15pm today (Wednesday 17 September), but much was said about Melania's royal protocol.
She and Trump were welcomed with a personal greeting from the British Royal Family, with the Prince and Princess of Wales meeting them outside of their Marine One helicopter.
In images that have since been trending on social media, the foursome all enjoy a series of handshakes before William and Kate escort the Trumps towards the palace to meet with King Charles III and Queen Camilla.
After approaching the monarch, the president and his wife were seen - once again - shaking Charles and Camilla's hands, before the group of six began chatting among themselves.
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However, the Trumps, specifically Melania, have irked some viewers watching the proceedings from home, who noticed she seemingly refused to curtsy to either the King or Queen.
She also failed to pay the same respect to William and Kate after clambering out of the chopper. But why?
Well, apparently, Melania has no obligation to bow down to any member of the British monarchy. In fact, according to the royal family’s official website, no one does.
"There are no obligatory codes of behaviour when meeting a member of the Royal Family, but many people wish to observe the traditional forms," the site explains of alleged 'protocol'.
"For men this is a neck bow (from the head only) whilst women do a small curtsy. Other people prefer simply to shake hands in the usual way."
Who knew, eh?
Anyway, following their many, many handshakes, the Trumps joined the King and Queen, as well as Kate and William, for a scenic carriage ride through the green parkland to the castle.
Around 120 horses and 1,300 members of the British military were involved in the ceremonial welcome at Windsor, with 160 personnel from the Royal Marines and Royal Navy, 1,000 from the British Army and 140 from the Royal Air Force.
Charles and Trump appeared to be engaged in conversation as the carriage procession set off, while Camilla and Melania could also be seen deep in discussion in the following carriage.
Meanwhile, William and Kate followed closely in the coach behind, and as the carriages proceeded along the route, the American and British national anthems were played.
Trump's trip across the pond marks his second state visit as US president, having previously visited back in 2019 when the late Queen Elizabeth II was monarch.
The state visit has caused controversy, and there are no public-facing engagements for the president throughout.
On top of this, thousands of people are expected to take part in major protests against his two-day stay.
On Thursday (18 September), the Republican leader is also set to meet with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer at his country residence, Chequers.
Topics: Donald Trump, King Charles III, Royal Family, UK News, Politics, Melania Trump, The Queen
Madison Burgess