Image Source: X/ TheBritishIntel
US President Donald Trump and his wife Melania have arrived in London for an important visit. They received a grand welcome at Windsor Castle, the world’s oldest and largest inhabited castle. The event featured gun salutes, a military flypast, and an extravagant banquet. Following the ceremonies, Trump is scheduled to meet UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and his team. One of the main questions on everyone’s mind is whether they will talk about the Israel-Hamas War and the Ukraine War, conflicts that have already claimed tens of thousands of lives.
Shortly after arriving in London, Trump took to his social media platform, Truth Social, where he expressed his feelings about the trip. He wrote, "I Love King Charles." He also added, "I have a lot of things here that ... they warm my heart. It's a very special place."
For Prime Minister Starmer, this visit is seen as a key chance to strengthen the long-standing "special relationship" between the US and the UK. The two leaders are expected to explore ways to enhance economic partnerships, secure major investments, discuss trade tariffs, and raise the pressing issues of the Ukraine War and the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict.
In recent months, the US and UK signed a new technology agreement focused on developing cooperation in areas such as artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and civil nuclear energy. Notably, American tech giant Microsoft has already committed to investing GBP 31 billion ($42 billion) in the UK’s technology sector.
Besides economic cooperation, Starmer is expected to bring up two highly sensitive topics: the Israel-Hamas conflict and the Russia-Ukraine war. The US has been a major player in both conflicts from the beginning.
Donald Trump, who promised to end the Ukraine conflict quickly when he took office, has not succeeded in doing so. Nevertheless, he has continued the policy of providing arms and ammunition to Ukraine, following the approach set by the Biden administration.
The UK, along with the European Union, was not pleased when Trump reportedly pressured Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. On the other hand, Keir Starmer joined forces with the leaders of France, Germany, and the EU to make it clear that the UK will continue supporting Ukraine against Russian aggression.
It is highly likely that Starmer will bring up the Ukraine conflict during his talks with Trump, seeking further clarity on America’s approach and commitments.
Meanwhile, the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) recently launched a major ground operation in Gaza City to dismantle Hamas militants, amid serious allegations of genocide. Starmer is expected to raise this troubling issue with Trump during the visit.
The US has consistently supplied Israel with advanced weapons and missiles, which have contributed to large-scale destruction in the Gaza Strip.
Adding to the tension, the UK government has already announced its plan to recognize Palestine at the upcoming United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) meeting next week. Starmer may use this opportunity to urge the US to pressure Israel to halt hostilities, as about 65,000 people have died in the ongoing conflict.
Given Donald Trump’s well-known outspoken nature, he may find it challenging to reassure the UK Prime Minister or offer commitments that align with Starmer’s approach.
Donald Trump’s visit to the UK comes at a critical time, with two major global conflicts unfolding. While economic and technological cooperation will be part of the discussions, the spotlight will likely remain on the humanitarian and geopolitical crises in Ukraine and Gaza. The world watches closely to see whether this high-profile meeting will lead to meaningful solutions or further diplomatic tensions.
Also Read: WORLD NEWS: Who is Brendan Lynch? The Man Behind the Push to Restart India-US Trade Negotiations
