Donald Trump appeared to break royal protocol during a meeting with the Prince and Princess of Wales at Windsor Castle — but a lip reader claims to have uncovered exactly what the former U.S. president said in the moment.
Trump, 79, and his wife Melania, 55, are currently in the UK for their second state visit, having landed at London Stansted Airport on Monday, September 16. On Tuesday, September 17, the couple flew by helicopter onto the grounds of Windsor Castle, where they were greeted by Prince William and Kate Middleton before meeting King Charles III and Queen Camilla.
The arrival, however, did not go according to plan. The helicopter had been scheduled to land at 11:55 a.m., but only began circling the gardens around 12:10 p.m. before touching down at 12:14. Trump stepped out at 12:15, pushing back the royal timetable by nearly 20 minutes.
When greeting the royals, Trump shook hands with both William and Kate. Observers noticed two small gestures that sparked debate online: he appeared to give Kate’s hand a slight pull, and then gave William a friendly tap on the shoulder — something not typically done during formal royal greetings.
After reviewing footage of the encounter, lip reader Nicola Hickling told the Express that Trump greeted William by saying: “Hello, my friend, how are ya?” She added that when he turned to Princess Kate, he remarked: “Hello, this is a relief.”
The former president’s visit marks his first UK state trip since 2019, when he was received by Queen Elizabeth II. This time, there are no large-scale public engagements on his agenda. Instead, Trump will meet Prime Minister Keir Starmer at Chequers on Wednesday, September 18, where the two are expected to share lunch before hosting a joint press conference.
🚨 NOW: President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump have been greeted by Their Royal Highnesses The Prince and Princess of Wales
pic.twitter.com/omQ1XS7LYR— Eric Daugherty (@EricLDaugh) September 17, 2025
While Trump is occupied with political talks, Melania will remain at Windsor Castle. Queen Camilla is scheduled to accompany her on a private tour, including Queen Mary’s famous doll’s house and the royal library. The Queen will later join her husband at Chequers before the couple returns to the United States.
The state visit has not been without controversy, however, as protests have broken out across the UK in opposition to Trump’s presence.