A petition with roughly 4,800 signatures protesting a potential visit by former U.S. President Donald Trump to the American war cemetery in Margraten has been presented to the mayor of Eijsden-Margraten. The petition was delivered Wednesday evening by Pro Eijsden-Margraten, a coalition party consisting of members from GroenLinks, PvdA, and D66.

The move comes after the mayor and governor of Limburg extended an invitation to Trump in January to commemorate the 80th anniversary of liberation at the cemetery. This commemoration is scheduled to coincide with the NATO summit in The Hague on June 24 and 25, which Trump plans to attend. However, a final decision regarding a possible visit to South Limburg by Trump is still pending.

The invitation was extended to the leader of a friendly nation, recognizing the crucial role Americans played in liberating the Netherlands. However, the local opposition to Trump’s visit stems, in part, from the area’s unique grave adoption system, where residents care for the graves of fallen soldiers and maintain connections with their families in the United States.

Franklin Boon, a member of Pro Eijsden-Margraten, highlighted the strong bond between residents and the soldiers’ families, who also support the petition. Boon criticized the potential visit as an “embarrassing spectacle,” citing Trump’s past remarks labeling fallen soldiers as “losers.” He believes this statement devalues their service and sacrifice.

Boon argues the soldiers fought for freedom, democracy, and to end tyranny. He contrasts this with Trump’s actions, accusing him of not prioritizing peace through his stances on international issues.

Boon anticipates the chances of Trump visiting South Limburg are now “zero” given the residents’ clear opposition. He also stated that, should Trump visit, the area is unprepared and would face a “gigantic problem” with security measures needed well in advance.