Donald Trump publicly rebuked Sir Keir Starmer during a triumphant address following the announcement of a landmark agreement aimed at ending the conflict with Iran.
Speaking from Évian after signing an initial peace framework with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, the US President used part of his speech to express frustration with Britain’s response to the crisis in the Middle East.
Trump told reporters he had encouraged allies to contribute naval assets to regional security efforts, but suggested the Prime Minister had been reluctant to commit.
“I said it would be nice if you sent some ships,” Trump recalled. “The Prime Minister said, ‘They will be there as soon as the war is over.’ I said, ‘Did he just say that?’”
The remark drew laughter from some journalists and threatened to overshadow what Trump had hoped would be a victory lap following the announcement of the 14-point agreement with Tehran.
Under the framework, Iran has agreed not to pursue nuclear weapons, while international partners will support a vast reconstruction and economic development programme reportedly valued at $300 billion.
The pointed criticism came amid growing scrutiny of the relationship between the two leaders after a series of awkward encounters at the G7 summit.
Footage broadcast from the gathering appeared to show Trump brushing past Starmer on several occasions, including one moment when the Prime Minister attempted to engage with the US President before Trump turned his attention elsewhere.
Another clip showed Starmer standing nearby as Trump enthusiastically greeted other world leaders.
Political opponents seized on the incidents as evidence that the Prime Minister is struggling to establish influence with the White House at a time when Britain is seeking to strengthen its relationship with Washington.
Downing Street has sought to downplay suggestions of tension between the two leaders, insisting the UK and US continue to work closely on security, trade and international affairs.
Nevertheless, Trump’s latest comments are likely to raise fresh questions about Starmer’s standing on the world stage and whether Britain risks being sidelined as the US shapes the next phase of international diplomacy.
For a Prime Minister already facing mounting political pressure at home, the public dressing-down from America’s commander-in-chief will be an uncomfortable moment that opponents are unlikely to let pass unnoticed.
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