Starmer’s Rebuke of Trump Highlights Strains in UK-US Relations

Recent statements by Prime Minister Keir Starmer and former US President Donald Trump have drawn attention to ongoing tensions between the UK and the US, particularly regarding military cooperation and diplomatic relations.

On January 23, 2026, Starmer publicly criticized Trump’s remarks about NATO troops in Afghanistan, describing them as “insulting and frankly appalling.” Starmer also called for Trump to apologize for comments that he said diminished the contributions of British and NATO personnel during the conflict.

Trump made his Afghanistan remarks during an interview at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. His statements suggested that non-US NATO forces did not participate on the front lines in Afghanistan, prompting responses from UK officials and other public figures.

Prior to the Afghanistan comments, Trump had criticized the UK’s decision to return the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, describing the move as “stupidity” and “total weakness.” Trump also issued threats to impose tariffs on European allies over Greenland, actions which Starmer had previously addressed in public statements.

What the numbers show

• 457 British service members lost their lives in Afghanistan
• Starmer’s condemnation was issued on January 23, 2026
• Trump’s interview took place at the World Economic Forum in Davos

Starmer’s response to Trump’s recent statements reflected a shift in the UK’s approach to its relationship with the US, following a period of cautious diplomatic engagement. The exchange occurred amid ongoing discussions within the Labour Party about the UK’s alignment between the US and Europe.

Public reaction to Trump’s Afghanistan remarks included statements from Prince Harry, veterans, and families of those who died in the conflict. These groups also condemned Trump’s characterization of NATO involvement in Afghanistan.

Starmer’s criticism of Trump’s positions on the Chagos Islands and Greenland followed a series of public disagreements between the two leaders on issues affecting UK foreign policy and international partnerships.

The debate over the UK’s stance toward the US and Europe continues within the Labour Party, as officials consider the implications of recent developments for future diplomatic and security cooperation.

* This article is based on publicly available information at the time of writing.