Tensions between the UK and the US have intensified after Donald Trump publicly mocked Keir Starmer during a speech at the White House.
Footage from an Easter lunch event shows Trump criticising the UK’s stance during the Iran conflict, including claims about Britain’s response to requests for military support.
During the speech, Trump appeared to impersonate Starmer while questioning the UK’s willingness to deploy aircraft carriers. He said: “I asked [the] UK, who should be our best. In fact the king is coming over here in two weeks, he’s a nice guy, King Charles.
“But should be our best but they weren’t our best. I said: ‘You have two, old broken-down aircraft carriers, do you think you could send them over?’
“‘Ohhh, I’ll have to ask my team.’
“I said: ‘You’re the prime minister, you don’t have to.’
“‘No, no, no, I have to ask my team. My team has to meet, we’re meeting next week.’
“But the war already started. Next week the war’s going to be over … in three days.”
The footage, initially shared via a White House social media channel before being removed, has since circulated widely online.
Sources in Whitehall have disputed Trump’s claims, stating that no formal request for UK aircraft carriers had been made and that Britain had not offered them.
Prime Minister Starmer has not directly responded to Trump’s latest remarks but has previously emphasised his focus on national interests.
Speaking at a parliamentary session, he said: “I’m utterly focused on what is in the best interests of our country and I am unapologetic about that.”
He added: “Notwithstanding the pressure that comes from elsewhere, I will remain laser focused on what is in the British national interest.”
The exchange reflects growing strain in UK-US relations, particularly over Britain’s decision not to participate in initial military strikes on Iran and its handling of other foreign policy issues.
During the same speech, Trump also made remarks about Emmanuel Macron, further highlighting the increasingly confrontational tone in international relations.
Despite the criticism, Starmer reiterated his position, stating: “I am the British prime minister and my job is to be absolutely focused on what is in the British national interest.”