Starmer’s Diplomatic Triumph in Washington
As Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer boarded the flight back home from Washington, DC, he took a moment to unwind after a whirlwind of diplomatic meetings and notably tactile interactions with President Donald Trump. “I’m happy,” he remarked to his entourage, flashing a thumbs up reminiscent of Trump’s signature gesture.
While Starmer savored his diplomatic achievements, elated aides in Downing Street viewed the trip as a cause for celebration. On the return flight, aides ordered multiple rounds of drinks, leading to a bit of chaos as the air stewards quickly ran out of glasses, leaving thirsty journalists at the back of the Prime Minister’s jet in a state of disbelief.
Despite not securing his primary goal of establishing a robust American security “backstop” for Ukraine in the event of a ceasefire with Russia, Starmer returned home satisfied with the outcomes of his visit.
Starmer succeeded in charming Trump during their first meeting since the Republican’s return to office by appealing to the President’s fondness for grandeur and royal validation. He presented a personal invitation from King Charles III to attend a second state dinner, portraying it as “unprecedented” and a testament to the enduring special relationship between the UK and the US.
Observers were left astonished by the warm reception Starmer received from Trump, who even complimented his British accent. In a notable display of camaraderie, the two leaders met for a working lunch featuring salad, sea bass, and a decadent chocolate caramel cake. Their gift exchange included a tartan golf cap for Trump and a US soccer shirt for Starmer, solidifying a friendly atmosphere.
During the two-hour diplomatic discussion, Starmer confidently asserted himself. Trump labeled him a “tough negotiator” and implied that the British taxpayer was getting their money’s worth from his leadership. The President even proposed a potential trade deal that could exempt the UK from American tariffs, which is a significant boon for Starmer’s economic growth agenda.
This tentative deal, likely falling short of a comprehensive free trade agreement, is expected to emphasize collaboration in technology, science, and artificial intelligence, building on the Atlantic Declaration signed by the previous administration. Another diplomatic victory for Starmer was Trump’s indication that the US would not obstruct British efforts to return the Chagos Islands and lease back Diego Garcia, the largest island in the archipelago housing a substantial military base.
Starmer’s charismatic yet steely demeanor, coupled with these diplomatic successes, may help alleviate concerns among his Labour MPs about his perceived shift towards the political right. However, such victories in the US could further complicate the UK’s relationship with Europe, as Trump reiterated his preference for engaging with London over Brussels.
Starmer’s upcoming challenge will be hosting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and over a dozen European leaders in London to discuss security guarantees for Kyiv in the event of a ceasefire. This meeting presents an opportunity to foster cooperation between the UK and the European Union on defense matters, potentially encouraging EU negotiators to disentangle security demands from other contentious issues like fishing rights and youth mobility.
However, one significant point of contention emerged regarding Russia and Ukraine. Trump expressed his trust in Russian President Vladimir Putin, suggesting that the presence of American workers in Ukraine mining for minerals would deter any aggressive moves from Russia. This ambiguity from Trump may serve as a strategic ploy to keep Putin guessing about US intentions in the event of further hostilities.
The stakes are high, particularly as the prospect of deploying British troops alongside other NATO nations in a peacekeeping role in Ukraine would represent one of the most consequential decisions of Starmer’s premiership. The memories of prolonged military engagements in Iraq and Afghanistan undoubtedly linger in his mind.
European leaders are looking for assurances from Trump regarding US support, particularly in terms of aerial intelligence, surveillance, and air cover for European peacekeeping troops should they face Russian aggression after any peace agreement. Although Trump did not provide a concrete guarantee, he did acknowledge, “If they need help, I will always be with the British.”
Starmer has every reason to feel pleased with his reception following this visit. In the court of Emperor Donald, once the top leader decides he favors you, that goodwill seemingly lasts until further notice. Yet, the Prime Minister must also navigate the unpredictable nature of Trump’s temperament. During one moment of the press conference, Trump brusquely interrupted Starmer, stating, “that’s enough,” leaving a reminder of the President’s often impolite demeanor.
Starmer’s decision to dramatically extract the royal invitation from his jacket pocket was a clever piece of stagecraft. In response, Trump quipped, “I must make sure his signature is on that; otherwise, it’s not quite as meaningful.” Fortunately, the King had signed the letter in bold black felt tip. “And that’s quite a signature, isn’t it? Beautiful,” Trump remarked, encapsulating the theatricality of their encounter.
