UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer found himself in a tricky situation during the visit of U.S. President Donald Trump to Scotland. Trump’s blunt remarks about London Mayor Sadiq Khan, labeling him a “nasty person,” left everyone in a bit of a stir.
Trump was in the UK to meet with Starmer, focusing on critical international matters like trade tariffs, the ongoing situation in Ukraine, and the crisis in Gaza. While Trump had kind words for Starmer, describing him as someone he liked, he also expressed equal fondness for Nigel Farage, leader of the Reform UK party.
“I like both men,” Trump said candidly. “Keir seems like a great guy, and so does Nigel. I don’t really follow your politics, but one seems a little liberal and the other a little conservative. Still, they’re both good men.”
However, Trump reserved no such praise for Sadiq Khan, the Mayor of London since 2016 and a Labour Party member. Without mincing words, Trump said, “I’m not a fan of your mayor. I think he’s done a terrible job… a nasty person.”
This comment placed Starmer in an awkward spot, especially since Khan is considered a friend. In an attempt to ease the tension, Starmer laughed somewhat awkwardly and replied to Trump, “He’s a friend of mine, actually.” Trump stood firm, though, “I still think he’s done a terrible job,” he added, “But I’d certainly visit London.”
The UK visit by Trump is considered by Starmer as a “very special and unprecedented” state visit, complete with several unique elements not seen in previous visits. Notably, this trip does not include an address to Parliament, a decision criticized by Farage but shrugged off by Trump.
“If Keir wants me to speak in Parliament, I’ll do it. Doesn’t have to be now—it could happen another time,” Trump remarked.
During his visit, Trump emphasized his personal ties, repeatedly mentioning, “Nigel is a friend of mine. Keir is a friend of mine.”
Responding to Trump’s sharp words, a statement from Sadiq Khan’s spokesperson welcomed Trump to London, hailing it as “the greatest city in the world.” The statement highlighted London’s diversity as one of its biggest assets, making the city “stronger, not weaker; richer, not poorer.”
The statement also pointed out that under Trump’s presidency, a record number of Americans applied for British citizenship—a possible testament to London’s allure in contrast to Trump’s leadership.
Although the meeting between Trump and Starmer was intended to concentrate on pressing global issues, Trump’s casual but striking comments about Khan seized attention, showcasing the delicate balance world leaders must maintain when interacting with the outspoken U.S. president.
