US President Donald Trump has spoken highly of UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, emphasizing their “very good relationship.” Speaking aboard Air Force One, Trump revealed plans for a phone call with Starmer “over the next 24 hours.”
Trump Commends Starmer
To begin with, Trump expressed admiration for Starmer despite differing political views. “I get along with him well. I like him a lot,” Trump said. “He’s liberal, which is a bit different from me, but I think he’s done a very good job thus far.”
Additionally, Trump acknowledged Starmer’s leadership, saying, “He’s represented his country in terms of philosophy. I may not agree with his philosophy, but I have a very good relationship with him.”
Over the years, the two leaders have interacted multiple times. For instance, during Trump’s campaign, Starmer visited Trump Tower in New York. Furthermore, after Trump’s re-election, the two held a phone conversation and agreed the US-UK partnership would “continue to thrive.”
Musk Criticizes Starmer
In contrast, Elon Musk, a Trump ally, strongly criticized Starmer. On social media, Musk accused Starmer of being “deeply complicit in the mass rapes in exchange for votes.”
However, Starmer dismissed these accusations as “lies and misinformation.” He defended his record, stating he tackled the grooming gangs issue “head-on” during his tenure as director of public prosecutions between 2008 and 2013.
Diplomatic Challenges Loom
Meanwhile, diplomatic matters add to the complexity of US-UK relations. Foreign Secretary David Lammy confirmed Starmer’s upcoming visit to Washington. Notably, talks are likely to address Trump’s proposed trade tariffs and his reduced support for Ukraine.
At the same time, a dispute over the Chagos Islands remains unresolved. The UK plans to cede sovereignty, but Trump has yet to make a decision on the deal.
Ambassador Nomination Sparks Debate
Moreover, Trump’s team has raised concerns about Starmer’s nomination of Lord Peter Mandelson as British ambassador. Chris LaCivita, Trump’s campaign co-manager, referred to Mandelson as “an absolute moron” and added, “He should stay home.” It remains uncertain whether Trump will accept this nomination.
Lammy’s Changing Stance on Trump
Interestingly, Lammy’s past criticism of Trump resurfaced recently. In 2018, he described Trump as a “tyrant” and a “neo-Nazi-sympathising sociopath.” Nevertheless, Lammy now dismisses these remarks as “old news.” Notably, he recently joined Starmer at a dinner with Trump.
In conclusion, as the US-UK relationship progresses, Trump’s praise, Musk’s criticisms, and ongoing diplomatic challenges underscore the complexities of this partnership.