1 / 10Starmer’s Objectives and Arrival in Washington: British Prime Minister Keir Starmer traveled to Washington with two key goals: to convince US President Donald Trump to offer security guarantees for Ukraine in any peace settlement and to ensure British goods remained free of US tariffs. The visit, occurring on Thursday, centered on a White House meeting that tested Starmer’s diplomatic skills. His approach involved fostering a connection with Trump, a leader known for his distinctive style, while addressing critical policy issues affecting both nations. (AP Photo)
2 / 10The White House Meeting: On Thursday, Starmer met Trump in the Oval Office. The discussion combined moments of friendliness with clear signs of disagreement, especially regarding Ukraine’s conflict with Russia. Starmer used flattery, commending Trump’s leadership and the long-standing US-UK partnership, to establish goodwill. However, their exchanges exposed contrasting perspectives on security and economic matters, setting the stage for a complex dialogue. (AP Photo)
3 / 10Seeking Military Support for Ukraine: A central aim for Starmer was securing US military backing for Ukraine against Russian aggression. He presented this as vital to Kyiv’s defense efforts. Trump, however, rejected the proposal, showing no interest in expanding US military commitments abroad. This exchange revealed a significant divide, with Starmer prioritizing allied support and Trump favoring a more restrained US role. (AP Photo)
4 / 10Trump’s View of UK Military Strength: During the talks, Trump highlighted the UK’s military capabilities, calling them “incredible.” He posed a rhetorical question, “Could you take on Russia by yourselves?” intended as a humorous aside. The comment reflected his belief that Britain could manage its defense independently, a perspective that shaped his responses throughout the meeting. (AP Photo)
5 / 10Assurance of US Support: Despite suggesting British self-reliance, Trump pledged US assistance if UK peacekeeping forces faced an attack. He affirmed, “I will always be with the British,” reinforcing the historical alliance. This commitment provided Starmer with a measure of reassurance, even as other requests went unmet, underscoring the durability of the US-UK bond.
6 / 10Emphasis on Historical Ties: Starmer stressed the deep-rooted relationship between the two countries, labeling it “the greatest alliance of prosperity and security that the world has seen.” His words sought to remind Trump of the shared history and mutual interests that have long united them. This appeal aimed to strengthen cooperation on the issues under discussion.
7 / 10A Royal Invitation: As a diplomatic gesture, Starmer delivered an invitation from King Charles for Trump to visit the UK, specifically to Balmoral, the royal family’s Scottish estate. The invitation arrived on formal stationery, symbolizing the cultural link between the nations. Trump accepted, calling the king “a beautiful man,” adding a personal note to the official proceedings. (AP Photo)
8 / 10Perspectives on Ukraine’s Peace Prospects: Starmer recognized Trump’s influence in creating a “moment of tremendous opportunity” for peace in Ukraine. Yet he warned that any deal must not “reward the aggressor,” referring to Russia, and emphasized the need for fair terms to protect Ukraine’s interests. This stance reflected his focus on a sustainable resolution to the conflict. (AP Photo)
9 / 10Disagreement Over Security Guarantees: Starmer pressed for US security guarantees to enforce a potential Ukraine peace deal, arguing they were essential for its success. Trump dismissed this, confident that Russian President Vladimir Putin would honor an agreement without US oversight. He instead pointed to a minerals deal with Ukraine, announcing that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy would sign it the next day at the White House, calling it “a very big agreement.” Trump suggested this economic pact, involving American workers in Ukraine, offered sufficient assurance.
10 / 10Economic Talks and Rapport: Economically, Trump hinted at a possible US-UK trade deal free of tariffs, though he stopped short of a firm promise. He praised Starmer as “a very tough negotiator,” acknowledging his persistence. Starmer pushed for collaboration in technology, particularly artificial intelligence, aligning Britain closer to US policies than to the European Union’s regulatory framework. Despite their differences, a rapport emerged. Trump called Starmer “a special man,” noting they got along “famously,” and even quipped about his accent, saying, “I would have been president 20 years ago if I had that accent.” (AP Photo)
