British PM Starmer Discusses Defence and Security in First Call with Trump

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer spoke with U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, covering key topics such as defence and regional security. The call, which followed Trump’s historic election victory, was a significant moment in strengthening UK-US relations.

The U.K. values its "special relationship" with the U.S., cherishing the long-standing ties built on shared values, cultural connections, and diplomatic, linguistic, and commercial links. London sees these deep bonds and mutual geopolitical interests as what makes its relationship with the U.S. unique.

However, whether this sense of exceptionalism and closeness is equally felt across the Atlantic has always been a point of debate in London. The strength of the U.K.-U.S. bond could face new tests as Donald Trump returns to the White House after his election victory.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer spoke with U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, covering key topics such as defence and regional security. The call, which followed Trump’s historic election victory, was a significant moment in strengthening UK-US relations.

In the lead-up to the election, Prime Minister Keir Starmer worked to reinforce ties with Trump. Starmer reached out to the Republican leader after an assassination attempt against him, and in September, he traveled to New York with Foreign Secretary David Lammy to meet Trump at Trump Tower for a dinner, further emphasizing the U.K.'s commitment to strengthening the relationship.

During the call, Prime Minister Starmer offered his "hearty congratulations" to Trump, expressing his eagerness to collaborate closely with the incoming U.S. president. Both leaders emphasized the strong ties between their countries and agreed that the relationship would continue to grow in the years ahead.

The conversation also touched on the situation in the Middle East, with Starmer highlighting the importance of regional stability. The leaders reflected on their previous meeting in September, where they discussed the close connection between the U.K. and the U.S.

This phone call comes amid pressure from Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch, who had previously called for Starmer to apologize for derogatory comments made about Trump by David Lammy, a Labour MP, before Lammy became foreign secretary. Badenoch also questioned how Trump’s election would impact UK trade and defence policies.

While Badenoch pressed for a direct response from Starmer regarding a possible invitation for Trump to address the UK Parliament, the prime minister did not provide a definitive answer.

Starmer and his foreign secretary had dined with Trump in New York back in September, marking the first face-to-face meeting between the two leaders.

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