Donald Trump announced efforts to finalize a trade deal with the UK, hinting that Britain could avoid tariffs if the agreement is secured. However, US-UK discussions fell short of reaching a consensus on security assurances for Ukraine during recent talks.
In a joint press conference at the White House on Thursday, Trump praised UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, describing him as a “dedicated” and “tough negotiator” who worked hard to prevent tariffs on British goods. “He’s earned his paycheck, I’ll tell you that,” Trump said. “We might just get a real trade deal where tariffs aren’t necessary. Let’s see what happens.”
Trump’s remarks followed his recent threats of imposing 25% tariffs on EU exports, alongside plans to increase duties on Mexico, Canada, and China. He emphasized that the UK is a “very different place” compared to the EU.
Starmer later confirmed that the two nations agreed to begin work on a new economic framework centered on advanced technology. UK officials noted that this effort aims for a phased economic and technological pact, steering away from a comprehensive free trade agreement.
Trump revealed that Vice President JD Vance and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent are spearheading discussions on the potential deal. “We’re working as fast as possible to make it happen,” Trump said.
Previous attempts at a US-UK trade agreement have faltered over Britain’s resistance to accepting specific American agricultural products. The prospect of a trade deal was a key argument for pro-Brexit advocates nearly a decade ago. While a full agreement faces significant challenges, avoiding tariffs would be a “notable win” for the UK, according to Paul Dales, UK economist at Capital Economics.
The meeting, which also aimed to facilitate peace efforts in Ukraine, took place shortly after French President Emmanuel Macron’s visit to Washington for similar discussions. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is scheduled to meet Trump on Friday, marking a potential thaw in their strained relationship. When reminded of his previous comment referring to Zelenskyy as a “dictator,” Trump responded, “Did I say that?”
European leaders have pressed Trump to provide military guarantees for a peacekeeping mission in Ukraine. However, Trump dismissed the need for a US military backstop, citing the presence of American personnel involved in a proposed minerals agreement with Kyiv as a sufficient deterrent against Russian aggression. “We’ll have people on the ground working there. That’s a strong enough signal,” Trump said, adding that the arrangement would also benefit Ukraine’s economy.
Trump expressed optimism about recovering Ukrainian land from Russian control, saying he and Starmer would discuss the issue in private. “They’ve fought hard for that land,” he noted.
In a separate development, Trump accepted an invitation from King Charles to visit Scotland, opening the door for what Starmer described as a “truly historic” second state visit to the UK. The US president lauded Starmer as a “special man” and reiterated his admiration for Britain, saying, “They’re capable of taking care of themselves, but if they ever need help, I’ll always stand with them.”
Trump also addressed concerns over his trust in Russian President Vladimir Putin, stating he employs a “trust and verify” approach. “I think Putin will honor any peace deal,” Trump said. “I’ve known him for a long time, and I believe the agreement will hold.”
Unexpectedly, Trump endorsed Britain’s decision to transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius while ensuring the long-term security of the UK-US military base on Diego Garcia. “We’ll discuss it soon, and I’m confident it’ll turn out well,” Trump stated.
Despite the overall cordial tone of the meeting, Vice President Vance criticized the UK for alleged infringements on free speech affecting American tech companies and citizens. Starmer defended the UK’s longstanding commitment to free speech, affirming it would continue for generations to come.
Starmer began the meeting by presenting Trump with a letter from King Charles, officially inviting him to Scotland. Asked about his plans to accept the offer, Trump responded enthusiastically: “The answer is yes. The king is a wonderful man.”
