The new Labour government in Britain, elected in July, has been working for months to build bridges with Donald Trump’s administration. Relations between the United States and the United Kingdom are already warm, but both U.S. President Donald Trump and U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer are keen to make them even closer and more robust. During a phone call on Sunday, the two leaders discussed strengthening bilateral ties and agreed to meet in person soon, according to a statement from Downing Street.
The Labour government has shown a strong interest in fostering relations with Trump’s administration. Foreign Secretary David Lammy, who once referred to Trump as a “hat-wearing tyrant,” recently shifted his tone and praised Trump’s “incredible generosity.” On Saturday, Trump reciprocated by praising Starmer, saying, “He’s doing a great job.” However, Starmer had earlier faced criticism from Trump’s close ally, Elon Musk.
One factor behind the warm rapport between Trump and Starmer could be military budget increases, though this was not discussed during their call. Trump has previously stated that Western allies like the U.K. should increase their defense spending as members of NATO.
The U.K. also has strategic reasons for seeking closer ties. London is looking to secure U.S. approval for an agreement with Mauritius regarding the Chagos Islands.
A statement from Starmer’s office at Downing Street emphasized the importance of the close and warm relationship between the U.K. and the U.S., as highlighted in the call. President Trump expressed his admiration and affection for the British royal family, while the two leaders agreed to have detailed discussions during their next meeting.
The White House noted that Trump has long been a fan of Britain’s monarchy and extended his best wishes to the royal family.
Starmer also plans to promote his country and U.K.-based industries to Trump, as he seeks new investment opportunities to revitalize Britain’s struggling economy.
Speaking to reporters on Air Force One on Sunday, Trump hinted that his first international trip during his second term could be to Saudi Arabia or the U.K. British media have speculated that Trump’s visit to London is imminent. During his first term in 2019, the late Queen Elizabeth II welcomed Trump, who described her as a “great woman” and someone “who never makes mistakes.”
The phone call between the two leaders also touched on the situation in the Middle East. Starmer praised Trump’s role in achieving a ceasefire in Gaza and expressed hope for collaboration between the two countries on Middle Eastern security. Trump, in turn, commended the U.K. and Israel for their efforts in securing the release of Emily Damari, a joint U.K.-Israeli citizen, from Hamas custody.