Donald Trump enjoyed the grandeur and formality of his visit to Windsor Castle today, but later in the evening, he will dine with a former close ally turned adversary, media mogul Rupert Murdoch. The US president is upset over allegations in the Wall Street Journal claiming he sent a suggestive letter to Jeffrey Epstein in 2003 for his 50th birthday. Trump vehemently denies sending the letter and is now suing the newspaper for defamation.
The tension between Trump and Murdoch could make for an interesting dinner during Trump’s UK trip, which has been free of protests so far. Trump, after announcing legal action, expressed on his Truth Social platform that he expects Murdoch and his associates to undergo extensive depositions and testimonies in the lawsuit. He also criticized the Wall Street Journal, calling it a “disgusting and filthy rag” and a “pile of garbage.”
Their current relationship contrasts sharply with their early days when Murdoch purchased the New York Post and Trump, known for his real estate ventures, provided insider information. Murdoch, as the owner of Fox News, promoted Trump and his conservative policies, which in turn boosted the network’s prominence. Some Fox News personalities even joined the Trump administration, including Secretary for Defense Pete Hegseth.
According to Andrew Dodd, a journalism professor at the University of Melbourne, Murdoch and Trump have a complex relationship that has evolved over the decades. Their dynamic will unfold behind closed doors at the banquet in St George’s Hall, as shown in footage from the official monarchy’s social media. The elaborate floral arrangements on the 50-meter table added a touch of elegance to the setting.
The banquet marked the culmination of a day focused on royal engagements, including a visit to Queen Elizabeth II’s tomb at St George’s Chapel, a lunch with the Royal Family, and a special Beating Retreat ceremony featuring a flypast by the Red Arrows.
Following the dinner, guests were treated to a selection of premium drinks, including Warre’s 1945 Vintage Port, Hennessy 1912 Cognac Grande Champagne, and Bowmore Queen’s Cask 1980 Islay. A special cocktail called the Transatlantic Whisky Sour, blending Johnnie Walker Black with marmalade and garnished with a toasted marshmallow, added a unique touch to the evening.
In attendance at the banquet were King and Queen, Donald and Melania Trump, the Prince and Princess of Wales, Rupert Murdoch, Elena Murdoch, Morgan Sweeney, Scott Bessent, Keir Starmer, Marco and Jeanette Rubio, and Sir Stephen Schwarzman.