Trump warns that UK trade deal 'can always be changed'
TL;DR
US President Donald Trump stated that the trade deal with the UK 'can always be changed,' emphasizing its flexibility. He also commented on the state of US-UK relations and criticized Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer.
Key points
- Trump stated the US-UK trade deal can be changed
- He criticized Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer
- Trump noted the relationship has been better
- King Charles and Queen Camilla's state visit is upcoming
Mentioned in this story
US President Donald Trump has said America's trade deal with the UK "can always be changed".
"We gave them a good trade deal, better than I had to," the US president told Sky News on Wednesday, when asked about the state of the special relationship.
Trump, who has persistently criticised Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer since he refused to join the US-Israel war against Iran in late February, said the relationship had "been better".
But he said this would not overshadow King Charles and Queen Camilla's forthcoming state visit to the US.
Asked how he would describe the special relationship, the US president responded: "With who?"
Upon clarification by the reporter that he was referring to the UK, Trump said: "It's the relationship where when we asked them for help, they were not there. When we needed them, they were not there.
"When we didn't need them, they were not there. And they still aren't there."
Pressed further on the relationship, Trump said it had "been better, but it's sad".
"And we gave them a good trade deal. Better than I had to. Which can always be changed."
In May last year, the UK became the first country to agree a tariff deal with President Trump after his return to office, cutting some import taxes on cars, aluminium and steel.
The relationship between the two countries' leaders has in recent weeks shown signs of strain over the Middle East. Trump has frequently criticised Sir Keir over his approach to the war, including on one occasion calling him "no Winston Churchill".
Earlier in the call, Trump said he "liked Starmer" but branded his government's immigration and energy policies "insane".
However, he said the state of their relationship would not "at all" overshadow the upcoming royal state visit.
"I've known the King for a long time, and he's not involved in that process," Trump said.
Asked what he was most looking forward to ahead of late April's royal visit, he responded: "Just being with him. I've known him for a long time. He's wonderful."
Q&A
What did Trump say about the UK trade deal?
Trump mentioned that the US-UK trade deal 'can always be changed,' indicating its flexibility.
How has Trump criticized UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer?
Trump has persistently criticized Starmer for refusing to join the US-Israel war against Iran.
What did Trump think about the current state of US-UK relations?
Trump stated that the US-UK relationship 'has been better,' reflecting his concerns about the current dynamics.
