Trump’s Controversial Golf Trip to Scotland Raises Eyebrows

AYRSHIRE, Scotland — President Donald Trump made headlines again as he traveled across the Atlantic Ocean for a four-day golf trip to open a new golf course in Ayrshire, Scotland, on August 10, 2025. The trip was noteworthy not only for Trump’s love of the sport, but also for the method of his transportation, choosing to use Air Force One for the occasion.

Trump, who has often expressed his fondness for Scotland, attributed this to his mother’s heritage. However, the use of taxpayer-funded Air Force One for personal leisure rather than official business sparked controversy. Critics pointed out that this practice raises questions about appropriate use of government resources.

On the third day of Trump’s visit, UK Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron visited to discuss a significant trade deal. The timing led some to wonder if Trump’s golf outing would have implications for these broader discussions.

Trump’s golfing methods drew attention as well. Critics noted that while golf is often seen as a healthy exercise, the former president’s approach involved riding in an electric golf cart, which may detract from the physical activity associated with the sport. Reports indicated that at least 15 golf carts were used to accommodate various guests, media, and security personnel.

On the international front, Trump has made commands regarding foreign policy to groups such as Hamas and statements directed at Russia concerning Ukraine. However, many observers deemed these efforts ineffective, particularly in light of Hamas’s continued resistance to accepting Israeli demands and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Amid criticisms, references to Mark Twain‘s quip about golf being ‘a good walk spoiled’ echoed throughout discussions of Trump’s time on the course. The president has publicly conveyed ambitions for a Nobel Peace Prize, suggesting he believes his diplomatic efforts could be impactful.

Dr. Arshad M. Khan, a US-based academic and journalist, commented on the situation, emphasizing the need for serious negotiation in both Middle Eastern and Eastern European contexts. He suggested that achieving peace would require far more than the casual approach displayed during Trump’s golf trip to Scotland.