As Donald Trump seeks refuge from 'Epstein Files' furore, Scotland's politicians must take care
Donald Trump has been trying to downplay the row over the Epstein Files, but many of his most fervent supporters are insisting they must be released
According to The Devil's Dictionary by Ambrose Bierce, the word diplomacy means “the patriotic art of lying for one's country”. Although written in the late 1800s and early 1900s, the satirical sting of his book can still be felt today.
While Donald Trump’s trip to Scotland at the end of this week may be a private affair, a prelude to his UK state visit, its potential political importance should not be underestimated. There is a chance to at least lay the groundwork for a diplomatic coup with real, tangible benefits for Scotland and the UK.
However, there is also a chance for things to go badly wrong, to annoy, embarrass or offend a childish and deeply flawed man, who also happens to be, whether we like it or not, the most powerful person on planet Earth.
‘Epstein hoax’?
These are troubled times for the US President. After a public falling out, one-time ally Elon Musk claimed Trump’s name was in the ‘Epstein files’, referring to Jeffrey Epstein, a wealthy financier who killed himself in jail on remand after being arrested on charges of sex-trafficking children.
The affair has begun to spiral with many of Trump’s own ‘Maga’ supporters demanding the release of the files, supposedly including Epstein’s ‘client’ list, and Musk now alleging there has been a “cover-up” and that “so many powerful people want that list suppressed”.
Trump, who's been struggling to persuade people there’s nothing to see in the “Epstein hoax”, will probably welcome the chance to escape to Scotland, play some golf, and talk about almost anything else. He may be desperate for the trip to go well and for as many political ‘wins’ as he can find, but also more volatile if things seem to be going badly.
So John Swinney and Keir Starmer will need to walk a tightrope as they seek to win concessions from Trump over tariffs and trade, hopefully urge him to do more to defend democracy in Ukraine, and avoid all mention of Epstein. While preparing for his visit, they should consider leafing through The Devil's Dictionary. When it comes to dealing with Trump, it may contain some helpful advice.
Comments
Want to join the conversation? Please or to comment on this article.