Trump Criticizes Former Scottish First Minister Sturgeon as 'Terrible' on Return Flight

During his recent visit to Scotland, US President Donald Trump expressed strong criticism of former Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, describing her as a "terrible" leader and a "failed woke extremist" while praising current First Minister John Swinney as a "terrific guy". Trump made these comments on Air Force One while returning to the US, after having dinner and meetings with Swinney, where discussions included the possibility of exempting Scotch whisky from US tariffs, though Trump said tariffs were not discussed in detail. Sturgeon responded on social media, stating the feeling was mutual and proudly representing values that offend Trump's worldview. Their longstanding feud includes Trump's past statements condemning Sturgeon’s policies, particularly on gender recognition and his disputes over his golf courses in Scotland. Trump also touted a significant trade agreement with the EU during his visit and sought to improve the UK-US trade relationship in discussions with UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer. His visit included opening a new golf course in Aberdeenshire, where he publicly thanked Swinney and praised Scotland as a "special place."