Trump Praises UK Ties, Meets Starmer at Turnberry Amid Policy Differences

U.S. President Donald Trump highlighted the “special relationship” with Britain during a joint appearance with Prime Minister Keir Starmer at his Turnberry golf resort in Scotland. The meeting, lasting over an hour, combined warm praise for Starmer, King Charles, and Trump’s Scottish roots with pointed remarks on policy disagreements involving immigration, energy, and taxation.

Trump lauded Starmer’s leadership and family, calling him “strong and respected,” while Starmer expressed gratitude for the hospitality and joked about reciprocating with a football match invitation. Their discussions touched on pressing global issues, including Trump’s new ceasefire deadline for Russia’s war in Ukraine and plans to establish food centers to address Gaza’s humanitarian crisis.

Despite the cordial tone, tensions arose when Trump criticized London Mayor Sadiq Khan, labeling him “a nasty person,” prompting Starmer to defend his ally. Trump also urged the UK to exploit domestic oil and gas reserves, dismissing offshore wind power—central to Starmer’s net-zero plans—as “expensive and ugly.” Starmer countered with support for a diversified energy mix, including small nuclear reactors.

The visit sets the stage for Trump’s upcoming state visit in September, where he will be hosted by King Charles, marking his second such honor—a rarity for modern world leaders. This historic occasion follows the signing of the first U.S.-UK bilateral trade deal since Trump imposed new global tariffs earlier this year.

Trump’s Scotland trip concludes Tuesday with the opening of a new golf course near Aberdeen, named after his mother, Mary Anne MacLeod, who was born in the Scottish Hebrides before emigrating to the United States.

This meeting underscores strengthening U.S.-UK ties amid evolving policy challenges and significant global events.