In a bold move, Prime Minister Keir Starmer has hardened his stance towards former US President Donald Trump, declaring in Parliament that he “will not yield” to Trump’s pressure. This represents a significant shift from Starmer’s previous attempts to build a rapport with the divisive American leader.
Starmer’s tougher rhetoric comes after Trump unleashed a scathing tirade against the Prime Minister on his Truth Social platform, accusing him of “stupidity.” This public rebuke has prompted growing calls from within the Labour Party for Starmer to take a stronger position against Trump.
Several Labour MPs have privately expressed concerns that Starmer’s conciliatory approach has failed, with one warning that it is becoming increasingly difficult to “hold your head up high” when campaigning. There are fears that Starmer’s handling of the Trump issue may be viewed as “appeasement” in the future.
Privately, some Labour figures believe Starmer should follow the example of former Bank of Canada governor Mark Carney, who warned world leaders at the World Economic Forum in Davos that “middle powers must act together” to counter the threats posed by global powers.
Starmer’s use of the Royal Family, particularly the King’s invitation to Trump for a second state visit, has been seen as a key part of his strategy for managing the former US president. However, this tactic does not appear to have secured lasting warm relations with Trump.
The deterioration in US-Canadian relations, with Trump seemingly reviving threats towards Canada, has also raised concerns about the expected visit of the King to the US this year to mark 250 years of its independence.
While Starmer’s rhetoric has hardened, some within his inner circle remain cautious about adopting a more confrontational approach, warning that “you still have to speak to them the next day.” However, there are indications that Starmer’s latest stance may appease some Labour MPs for now, even as others continue to push for more aggressive action, such as retaliatory tariffs.
The government’s handling of the Chagos Islands deal, which Trump has criticized as an “act of great stupidity,” has also emerged as a point of contention, with concerns that it could undermine Labour’s political positioning, especially in the run-up to local elections.
As Starmer navigates this complex geopolitical landscape, he faces important choices that could have significant consequences for his leadership and the Labour Party’s standing.